Shannon Maureen Brown, 57, of Lawton, Oklahoma, passed away peacefully on Friday, November 29, 2024, at her parents' home after a courageous 20-year battle with encephalitis, which she was diagnosed with in November 2004.

A private family burial will be scheduled at a later date.

Shannon Bentley was born on May 29, 1967, at Comanche County Memorial Hospital in Lawton, Oklahoma, to Elbert Warren Bentley and Johnna (Johnson) Bentley Blackmore. She attended Sullivan Village Elementary, MacArthur Junior High, and MacArthur Senior High School, graduating in 1985. Shannon's school years were filled with achievements and activities that showcased her vibrant spirit and dedication.

She participated in basketball and softball during her junior high years, was honored as FFA Sweetheart during her senior year, and served on both the junior and senior homecoming courts. A talented cheerleader and a proud Highlanderette officer, Shannon also danced at the Storey and Barton Dance Studio throughout her early years.

Shannon earned a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from Cameron University and devoted herself to teaching. She taught at Will Rogers, Sheridan Road, and Whittier Elementary Schools within Lawton Public Schools, later serving as a teacher assistant at Learning Tree Academy. Her dedication to nurturing young minds left a lasting impact on her students and colleagues alike.

A true animal lover, Shannon had a special connection with livestock, raising horses and pigs. One of her proudest moments was showing the Grand Champion Barrow pig at the 1984 Comanche County Fair. She cherished visits to her grandparents' farm, where Sunday dinners were a treasured tradition.

Shannon's passion for country music was unwavering, and she proudly claimed the title of George Strait's biggest fan. Her kindness, enthusiasm for life, and dedication to family and community will be fondly remembered by all who knew her.

Shannon is survived by her daughter, Kayla Hart Osborne and husband Daniel of Montgomery, Texas, her father and stepmother, Elbert and Kathy Bentley of Lawton, Oklahoma, sister, Alice Ann (Bentley) Allen and husband Blake of Wichita Falls, Texas, sister, Kelly Dawn Bentley of Lawton, Oklahoma, grandsons, Jett Cummings-Osborne, Mason Osborne, and Chase Osborne, and other nieces, nephews, and cousins, special friends Vonda McCune Williams and Jerry Williams, and special caregiver, Terry Dirickson.

Shannon is preceded in death by her mother and other family members.

Charitable contributions may be made to the Lawton Animal Shelter or the charity of your choice.