Verna M. Shannon, Jan. 10, 1941-Dec. 17, 2024, Coeur d’Alene, Idaho

It is with great sadness that the family of Verna M. Shannon announces her passing on Dec. 17, 2024, in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho.

Born on Jan. 10, 1941, in Dell, Mont., to Andrew and Rhoda Smilka, Verna grew up surrounded by the wide-open spaces of the state, where her parents operated a ranch. After selling the homestead, the Smilka family moved to Hot Springs, where they continued their ranching lifestyle.

Verna’s early years were marked by the beauty of the land, riding horses, and caring for her beloved dog, Bob, which instilled in her a deep love for family and community.

After graduating from high school, Verna attended college in Spokane, Wash. Her journey then took her to Los Angeles, Calif., where she met and married Gerald “Jerry” Shannon. The couple, along with their daughter, Stacey, later moved to Lancaster, Calif., where Verna earned her bachelor’s degree in business administration.

In 1977, they moved to the Mission Valley area in Montana. This place would be home for more than 30 years, surrounded by a loving church family and a circle of friends who became like family.

Verna had a fulfilling and impactful career at the Lake County Courthouse, where she worked as Judicial Assistant to Judge C.B. McNeil for more than 20 years. She formed lasting friendships during this time, and her warmth, intelligence and dedication were deeply appreciated by all who knew her.

In 2015, Verna moved to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, to be closer to family, where she cherished her time with loved ones, especially during the holidays.

While she will be dearly missed, she is now with the Lord Jesus and reunited with those who preceded her in death, including Jerry, her beloved husband of 46 years; her parents, Andrew and Rhoda Smilka; and half-siblings Marie Bishop, Charles Bishop and Jim Atkins.

Verna leaves behind a legacy of love and devotion to her family. She is survived by her daughter, Stacey, and her cherished grandsons Kyle (Kelsey Chase) Hephner and Randy (Lauren) Hephner. Verna also leaves behind five beautiful great-granddaughters, as well as many cousins across Kentucky, Indiana and Ohio, and nieces and nephews in Utah, California and Montana.

A celebration of Verna’s life will be held in June 2025 in Polson. Details will be announced in April.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in Verna’s memory to a charity of your choice.