William "Bill" Bennett Shannon

William “Bill” Bennett Shannon of Jackson, MI passed away peacefully on November 18, 2022 at the age of 95.  He was born on June 3, 1927, the son of William and Mary Lee Shannon in Lambert, MS.  He spent most of his childhood in Weakley County, TN and after graduating from high school he joined the U.S. Navy and served in World War II where he sang in the Blue Jacket Choir.   Upon return from the war, he attended the University of Tennessee and graduated from the ArtCenter College of Design in Los Angeles, California, majoring in automobile design followed by enjoying a 40-year career as a designer at Ford Motor and Chrysler companies in Detroit.  Bill was recognized for his vision in car design and talents in his field and frequently was asked to judge in car shows across the country, such as the annual Eyes on Design at the Edsel Ford estate where he judged for 30 years.  Bill was also accomplished in restoring old cars to their original beauty, a hobby he particularly enjoyed following retirement. 

For many years Bill would think nothing of driving across country to visit friends and family and did so countless times.  Always loyal, he made and kept friends for a lifetime.  For the past 18 years Bill lived in Jackson, MI, with Sharon, his wife for 52 years.  He attended First United Methodist Church of Jackson where he sang in the choir.  He will be remembered for his humility and solo voice beautifully singing the Lord’s Prayer and will be greatly missed by all who knew and loved him. 

Survivors include his loving wife Sharon Shannon; his sister, Marilyn Hanson; niece Sharon Polensek (Robert); and niece Holly Vance (Scott); brother-in-law, Dr. William (Darlene) Asselin..  He was preceded in death by his brother, Montague.

Services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Monday, Nov. 28th at the First United Methodist Church, 275 W. Michigan, Jackson 49201 with Rev. Tonya M. Arnesen officiating.  Visitation will be from 10 -11 A.M. Monday at church.  Special thanks to the SouthernCare Hospice and Our family friend.  Online condolences may be left at www.watson-funeral-chapels.com

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