Shannon Sue Walsh Durbin

1950–2026

Shannon Durbin ascended to heaven on cardinal wings on January 27, 2026. As the sister to 3 siblings, wonderful mother to 2 sons, grandma to 5 grandchildren, longtime companion to Mel, ex-wife to Frank, and friend to everyone she met, she will be dearly missed.

"Shanny" loved teaching, and was a PE teacher with SPS early in her career. After raising her sons and helping her husband expand his insurance business, she returned to her natural role as an educator, this time with Parents As Teachers.

Always kind and curious, Shannon loved life and had a smile that lit up the room. She loved flowers, and you could tell exactly what kind of person she was by how she treated all her kitties, as well as her collie Skipper. She loved playing tennis, taking her boys to the pool, and watching her St. Louis Cardinals play ball. During her lifetime, she saw them win 5 World Championships!

She was a wonderful friend and role model, teaching us all patience and kindness, just as her mother Helen had taught her. Her last 5 years, as Parkinson's became difficult to manage, she taught us all—family, friends, and caregivers—the true meaning of strength and determination. Her last few years were such a struggle…but every time she fell, she got back up. She was so grateful to those who stuck by her to the end, from Mel to Mary to Turners Rock to her boys, Sean and Kelly. Jeanne and Susan, too.

Preceded in death by her father, Edward Walsh, and her mother, Helen Walsh. Survived by eldest son Kelly Durbin in Springfield, MO and his family, Helena, Henry, and Hudson. Also, youngest son Sean Durbin in Newport Beach, CA and his family, Jessica, Finley, and Jack. Also, her brothers Mike and Greg, as well as her sister Chris.

A "Celebration of Life" occurs Saturday, April 4, 2026 from 2:00–4:00pm at the Lake Springfield Boathouse facility. Join us for a Pepsi, some Cheetos, and plenty of smiles and stories—just how Shannon would like it.

Ways to show your love and appreciation:

Contribute to a memorial park bench for Shannon (details at service 4/4)
Donate to Parents As Teachers
Spend more time with your mom or grandma
Help The Michael J. Fox Foundation fight Parkinson's Disease
Have a Pepsi and Cheetos and think of Shannon

You can also send cards, condolences, or flowers to:

Kelly Durbin

2158 E Claiborne St

Springfield MO 65804

Sean Durbin

4815-1/2 River Ave.

Newport Beach CA 92663