James Lavely 'JIm' Shannon

James Lavely "Jim" Shannon of Bella Vista, Ark., passed away on Feb. 19, 2014. He was born Aug. 14, 1929, in Garnett, Kan., to James E. and Zella Lavely Shannon. Jim grew up in Sedan, Kan., and graduated with a petroleum engineering degree from Kansas State University in 1952. Jim's career in the petroleum industry involved many years with Phillips Petroleum in Oklahoma, Kansas, Louisiana and a stint offshore in the North Sea. Jim and Judith Begovich were married in Cheyenne, Wyo., in 1970. He was preceded in death by his parents; a sister; a brother; son, Bruce E. Shannon; and stepdaughter, Tracy Sue Shannon. Survivors besides wife Judi, include daughters, Kathleen Dougay, Lea (Curtis) Emerson, Lori (Jorge) Amely, and son, Patrick Shannon, and stepson, Dan Begovich, all residing in various states; 10 grandchildren; and three great-grandchildren. Jim and Judi moved to Bella Vista in 1999. Jim was a Benton County Master Gardener, and also a member of the United Methodist Men. A memorial service will be at 2 p.m. Friday, Feb. 28, 2014, at the Bella Vista First United Methodist Church. Arrangements are by the Bella Vista Funeral Home & Crematory, 2258 Forest Hills Blvd., Bella Vista, Ark. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Bella Vista First United Methodist Church. Online condolences may be made at www.funeralmation.com.