John Shanks' Obituary
John Shanks, 76, of Memphis, Tennessee passed peacefully on September 28, 2017 after a courageous battle with cancer. He was born on December 24th, 1940 to Reverend Charles Alexander Shanks and Lillian Alice South Shanks in Jonesboro, Arkansas, who preceded him in death. He joins his parents and his siblings, Rachael Shanks, Jonathan Shanks, Iris Peluso, LaVee Secrease and Sue Shockley. John graduated from Memphis State and it was there that he met his wife, Betty Robison Shanks, on a blind date to the Memphis State and Ole Miss football game. They were married on December 26th, 1964 and enjoyed a long and beautiful marriage of 52 years. John enjoyed a successful career in the automobile industry and the fast food business. He had a passion for golf, bridge and serving others. Above all, he was a Godly man who loved and trusted the Lord. His greatest joy was his seven grandchildren and he delighted in everything they did. He is survived by his children, Kelly Shanks Burrow (Jim) of Memphis, Kristin Shanks Barton (Wilson) of Memphis, John Joseph Shanks (Andi) of Dallas; two sisters, Charlotte Shanks Daniels and Ruth Hinson, half brother, Chuck Shanks of Marysville, Ohio and his seven precious grandchildren, Adelaide Burrow, Wilson Barton, Lillie Burrow, John Barton, Olivia Barton, Meghan Barton, and Mary Maude Burrow, all from Memphis, as well as many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends, all of whom he loved dearly. A graveside service will be held Saturday, September 30 at 1:00 p.m. in Memorial Park Cemetery. The memorial service will be held at Second Presbyterian Church in the Chapel on Saturday, September 30 at 2:00 p.m. with visitation to follow the service. The family asks that any memorials be sent to the Memphis Union Mission or a charity of the donors choice
What’s your fondest memory of John?
What’s a lesson you learned from John?
Share a story where John's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with John you’ll never forget.
How did John make you smile?