Christopher Shannon's Obituary
Christopher Lee Shannon, of Columbia, passed away on August 28th, 2025 at MU Hospital. Chris was born in Macon, Missouri, where he was heavily involved in 4-H and marching band. He moved to Columbia to attend the University of Missouri. It was there that he became an active member of the community and thrived for two decades.
Despite a severe physical disability, Chris lived an outgoing life with many meaningful relationships. While pursuing a graduate degree in counseling psychology, Chris taught mindfulness and meditation to groups on campus. He performed spoken word poetry and went out dancing at events around town. Maybe most impressively, Chris was a skilled fire spinner and active member of local fire arts clubs. Even as his medical condition worsened– Chris continued to be a vivacious socialite and dear friend to many. Chris participated in the advancement of medicine in order to improve his own quality of life and that of others. He was involved in multiple research trials at Stanford University and is in publications in the New England Journal of Medicine. The research that Chris took part in has led to the first-ever FDA-approved treatments for epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Chris’s eagerness to participate in medical advancements has and will continue to benefit the lives of those living with EB. Chris is survived by mother Ann Shannon, father Wayne Shannon, little brother Clint Shannon, and two cats Bobbi and Suzuki. The excitement and energy that Chris brought to life will live on through those that knew him. He will be missed.
The family encourages donations to debra of America, https://www.debra.org/donate
Graveside services will be held on Friday, September 5, 2025, at Green Acres Cemetery in Columbia at 3:00 PM. Friends and family are asked to bring cut flowers as a tribute to Christopher.
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