Shannon Idelle Russell

     Shannon Idelle Russell died unexpectedly July 21, 2024, in Lexington at the age of 28 years 4 months 4 days. The family will hold a celebration of life memorial on July 27, 2024, entrusted the care of Wadley’s Funeral Service.

     Shannon was born March 17, 1996, in Fort Bragg, North Carolina to Scott Lee and Belinda Kay (Leverett) Rafferty. Her upbringing was punctuated by the transient rhythms of military life, leading her to educational adventures across the nation before finding a grounding sense of home in Oklahoma in 2000. A graduate of Paoli High School in 2014, Shannon embarked on a journey of learning and growth that saw her blossom into a proficient Dental Assistant and later learning the skills as a phlebotomist. It was on September 28, 2018, that she exchanged vows with her beloved Michael Christopher Russell in Purcell, Oklahoma. A dedicated wife and mother, Shannon found solace and purpose in caring for her family, pouring boundless love and devotion into every moment shared. Her innate gift for connecting with others made her a beacon of light, always ready with a warm smile to brighten the days of those around her. Crafting held a special place in Shannon's heart, serving as a creative outlet through which she could express her passion for beauty and artistry. Her love for country mirrored her spirited nature - vibrant, unwavering, and proud. In every way, Shannon was a firecracker - ablaze with joy, overflowing with love for all whom she encountered. Though she may have left this earthly realm, her spirit will continue to illuminate the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

     Shannon is preceded in death by her father, Scott Rafferty; her paternal grandparents, Larry and Karen Rafferty; her maternal grandparents, Morris and Ann Leverett; her uncle, Larry Rafferty; and her great nephew, Kal-el Wilder. Survivors include her husband, Michael Christopher Russell; her children, Logan, Keeley, Ethan, Emma and Ryan; her mother, Belinda Rafferty; her sisters, Ashley Rafferty and spouse, Anthony Lamirand, Spring Lancaster and spouse, Keith; her brothers, Justin Rafferty, Kenneth Blair and spouse, Michelle; her brother-in-law, Justin Cavazos; her nieces and nephews, Caleb, Leah, Braxlee, Kolton, Drakon, Chloe, Skylar, Blaine, Jordan, Lilah, Dean and Jackson; her great nieces and nephews, Elizabeth “Ella”, Isaac, Gatlin, Atticus and one on the way; her aunts and uncles, Jacqi Satterlee and spouse, Stuart, Jill Harris and spouse, Ron, Kari Phillips and spouse, Mike; and numerous other relatives and friends.