Shannon Kathleen Cowden (nee Callahan), wife of Matthew Troy Cowden, daughter of Richard Callahan and Janet Berrigan Callahan, sister of R.J. Callahan, mother of Chase Richards Cowden, Connor Michaels Cowden, and Cooper Matthews Cowden, died peacefully surrounded by her loving husband, parents, extended family and dear friends on Saturday, June 16, 2012.
Shannon graduated from Loyalsock High School, Williamsport, Pa., and West Chester University, West Chester, Pa. She majored in education and psychology. She also studied at the University of Galway, Ireland.
Shannon, together with her husband Matt, owned and operated the Cowden Family Market and the Cowden Lycoming Bakery.
Article Photos
Shannon Kathleen Cowden
Shannon was a member of MOPS (Mothers of Pre- schoolers). Shannon participated in a weekly Bible study at Hope Community Church. Shannon loved photography and enjoyed being part of her monthly book club.
Shannon's deepest joy and fulfillment in life came from being a mother. She viewed being a mother as her life's vocation. She, together with her husband, Matt, devoted herself to raising her three beautiful children.
Shannon was proud of her Irish heritage and loved her Catholic faith. Shannon embodied the sacred light of the Holy Spirit in her daily life. She radiated compassion, kindness and joy. She extended her hand in support and friendship to anyone in need. Her loving heart and gentle, fun-loving spirit were a gift to all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by all.
Shannon is survived by her paternal grandfather, Charles Vincent Callahan and her mother and father-in-law, Richard and Linda Cowden and a large extended family.
Shannon was preceded in death by her maternal grandparents, Michael R. and Loretta Berrigan and her paternal grandmother, Mary Gertrude Callahan.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated 9:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Boniface Catholic Church, 326 Washington Blvd., Williamsport, with her pastor, Msgr. Stephen D. McGough officiating followed by burial at Wildwood Cemetery.
The family will receive family and friends at the Crouse Funeral Home, 133 E. Third St., Williamsport, from 6 to 9 p.m. Tuesday evening.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Shannon's name may be made to Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, Central PA Chapter, 55 S. Progress Ave., Harrisburg, PA 17109.
