It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shannon Elisabeth McKinley, who left us unexpectedly on January 10th, 2025, at the age of 28. Shannon was born on August 6th, 1996, in Paris, France, to her loving parents, David McKinley and Nathalie Alliel. Raised with a deep love of family, Shannon's life was a reflection of her joy, her compassion, and endeavoring to forge her own path.

Shannon is survived by her sister Gray McKinley, her brother-in-law Korey Lewis, and her nephew Roman Lewis, with whom she shared a special bond. Shannon was a loving Aunt (Tante) who adored her nephew and took great joy in watching him grow. Her relationship with Gray was also special; having grown up together in Paris and going through adolescence in the U.S., traveling the world together and sharing adventures, and occasionally living together as adults. The love Shannon had for her family and the impact she had on them will be forever cherished.

Shannon graduated from Norwich Free Academy in 2015 and later pursued a bachelor's degree in interior design at Northern Arizona University, graduating in 2020. She moved to Austin, Texas in 2021, where she found her passion in creating beautiful spaces. As an Interior Designer, Shannon had the opportunity to combine her creative talents and her love of spatial aesthetics to design schools and commercial properties, leaving her mark on every project she touched.

A genuine free spirit, Shannon's creativity extended beyond her professional life. She was an avid crafter, learning woodworking from her father and sharing many of her hobbies with her mother and sister. Whether it was designing, painting, or sewing, Shannon found joy in working with her hands to create something new. Her love for music, movies, and art also reflected the joy she found in creative expression.

Shannon was known for being uniquely empathic, always willing to talk or listen to anyone, and lifting them up when they were most in need. Her kind heart and unabashed laughter made her a good friend to many and impossible to forget. Whether in France, Connecticut, Arizona, or Texas, she was beloved by all who knew her, leaving a lasting impression wherever she went.

She is sorely missed by her American aunts and uncles: Britt and Rita McKinley of Groton, MA, Brooks Maitland of Watertown, MA, Meghan and Michael Ganshirt of Easton, MA, Bard and Anne McKinley of Melrose, MA, and Tate and Hiro Sakiyama of Sherborn, MA, as well as her French aunts and uncles: Sophie Alliel and Olivier and Caroline Alliel of Paris, France. Her grandparents, David D. and Jean McKinley of Worcester, MA, Jill MacGlaflin of Sherborn, MA, and Robert Alliel of Nime, France. She was predeceased by Claude Alliel of Nimes, France.

In addition to her family, Shannon's legacy will live on in the countless lives she impacted. Her warmth, her laughter, and her ability to make others feel seen and heard will never be forgotten. She leaves us with the powerful reminder that though our paths may look different, what matters most is staying true to oneself and pursuing what brings genuine fulfillment. Shannon's light will continue to shine through the memories she created with those who loved her. Though she is deeply missed, she resides forever in our hearts.

A Celebration of Life for Shannon will be held
Location: The Eolia Mansion at Harkness State Park 275 Great Neck Rd. Waterford, CT 06385
Date: Friday, January 24th, 2025
Time: 1:00 pm

We are requesting that friends and family upload their favorite photos of Shannon and written tributes for the celebration of her life.  They may be uploaded and included on the Tribute Wall located at the top of this page.