In memoriam: Shannon “Renee” Gray

December 8, 1984 – August 30, 2024

Funeral Service September 22, 2024

2 Corinthians 1:3-4 [NIV]

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves receive from God.

Amen

We gather here today in shock and deep sorrow, to honor and remember a life that was vibrant, full of love, and taken from us far too soon. Shannon had a spirit that burned brightly, like a candle illuminating everything around her. She was a force of nature – vivacious, full of joy, and filled with an energy that touched everyone she encountered.

To know Shannon was to witness a life lived with passion. She brought light into every room, every conversation, and every moment she shared with us. Whether it was her infectious laughter, her bright smile, or the way she made everyone around her feel seen and valued, Shannon had a way of making life better simply by being in it.

We all knew her as someone who lived life boldly. She was always on the go, with an endless curiosity and a love for adventure that kept her moving forward. She embraced challenges, cherished her relationships, and took every opportunity to celebrate the beauty in life. She was a daughter, a sister, a friend, and so much more. To those closest to her, she wasn’t just part of their lives—she was their sunshine.

But in the same way a candle burns brightly, sometimes it also burns quickly. And today, we find ourselves grappling with the pain of losing someone so special in a senseless way. The tragedy of Shannon being taken from us in such a way feels unbearable, unfair, and incomprehensible. We are left with the question of “Why?” – a question that may never have an answer.

Yet even in this darkness, we must cherish the light she leaves behind. Shannon’s impact on each of us will not fade with her passing. The memories we shared, the joy she brought, and the love she spread – those will stay with us forever. In every heart she touched, in every life she changed, her spirit continues to burn brightly.

It’s often said that life is not measured by the number of breaths we take, but by the moments that take our breath away. Shannon filled her 39 years with countless moments like that – moments of joy, love, and laughter. Though we desperately wish she had more time, we can honor her by cherishing the moments we had with her and living our lives with the same fullness and passion she displayed.

Shannon may no longer walk among us, but her love, her kindness, and her laughter will always be etched in our hearts. Let us forever carry her memory with us, allowing her light to continue to shine – in us.

Rest in peace, dear Shannon. Your light will never be extinguished.

Psalm 23 [NKJV]

The Lord is my shepherd;
I shall not want.
He makes me to lie down in green pastures;
He leads me beside the still waters.
He restores my soul;
He leads me in the paths of righteousness
For His name’s sake.

Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death,
I will fear no evil;
For You are with me;
Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies;
You anoint my head with oil;
My cup runs over.
Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me
All the days of my life;
And I will dwell in the house of the Lord
Forever.

Amen