Oleta Faye Shannon

Oleta Faye Shannon, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away on September 1, 2023, after a long battle with illness. She was born on December 24, 1940, in Hendrix, Oklahoma to her loving parents George and Letha Fann. Oleta grew up in Oklahoma and attended school there.

Throughout her life, Oleta dedicated herself to the service industry. She worked in the kitchen at Ft. Hood Military Base and later at Kmart in retention. It was at Kmart where she would often get in trouble for fearlessly approaching shoplifters. Oleta's fearlessness and determination truly knew no bounds.

Known for her spirited personality, Oleta was a spitfire who loved her family and friends fiercely. If anyone made her girls cry, she would famously ask, "Who do I need to beat up?" Her blunt way of responding and long talks will be fondly remembered by those who knew her best. Despite her tough exterior, Oleta had a heart of gold.

Oleta had a number of hobbies and interests that brought joy to her life. She had a deep love for animals and was particularly passionate about Dallas Cowboy football. Watching the Cowboys play filled her with excitement and enthusiasm.

One of Oleta's proudest accomplishments was her children and grandchildren. She treasured every moment spent with them and was their biggest cheerleader in life. Oleta is survived by her sons Christopher Walton Sr. and his wife, Laurie of Corsicana, TX and Philip Walton of Telford, TN; her daughter, Yavonne Walton Gendron, and her husband, Roger, of Harker Heights, TX; her sister Nadine Laughlin of Denison, TX; her grandchildren, Dustin Walton and his wife, Ginger, Genna Rowell and her husband, Devin, Christopher Walton Jr. and his wife, Jenni, Chanz Gendron and his wife, Atlanta, Nathan Gendron and his wife, Myranda, Brian Gendron and his wife, Angie; as well her great-grandchildren, Lukas Gendron, Riley Flint, Logan Gendron, Rio Walton, Ridge Walton. She also leaves behind cherished nieces, nephews, family members, and friends who will forever carry her memory in their hearts.

Oleta Shannon was preceded in death by her parents George and Letha Fann, her true love Willy Walton, her son Ronnie Walton, her brothers Billy Fann and Bobby Fann, her sisters Dorothy Stubbfield, Katherine Stubbfield, Rebecca Sinor, and Jane Fann. She was also reunited with her beloved dogs T-Bone, Ribeye, and Patty Cakes who brought her so much joy during their time together.

The family would like to thank Oleta's hospice nurse, Jasmine and Creekside Terrace in Belton for the amazing care they gave her.

In honoring Oleta's memory, let us remember the strength she displayed throughout her life. Her fearless nature and unwavering love for her family and friends serve as an inspiration to us all. She will be deeply missed but never forgotten.

A graveside service for Oleta will be held at 2:00 P.M. on Friday, September 15, 2023 at Kemp Cemetery in Kemp, Oklahoma. 

Arrangements are entrusted to Crotty Funeral home & Cremation Services of Belton.