Shawn Duwayne Hancock

Shawn Duwayne Hancock conquered his battle with heart disease when he shed his earthly body on February 1st, 2020 in Cincinnati, AR at the age of 65. After making the brave decision to discontinue medical treatment, he came home where he spent several precious days with his family, friends, and his beloved pets. Anyone who knew Shawn, knew that once his mind was made up, that was how it was going to be.

Shawn was predeceased by his father, Vernon Norval Hancock (2013) and his mother, Ruby Jean (Tuttle) Hancock (2018). From his birth until his death, Shawn appreciated the people around him. He remained consistent in character, generosity and sense of humor. He had a quick wit, loved a good laugh, was always ready for an interesting conversation.

After graduating from Prairie Grove High School, Shawn pursued his desire to serve his country in the United States Navy. His naval career was cut short when he sustained severe injuries while serving aboard the U.S.S. Kennedy as a jet engine mechanic.

Education was always important to Shawn, as he was a life-long intellectual, always reading and building on his knowledge. This, along with his strong work ethic, led to a successful career with the City of Prairie Grove. Over the span of 20+ years, he finished out his career as the Waste Water Treatment Plant Manager in 2007, having to retire due to medical reasons. Shawn was a man of many talents and could always be found helping as a mechanic, butcher, working cattle on the farm, coaching his daughter’s softball team, and much more. He had many hobbies including fishing, building and flying model airplanes, reloading his own ammunition and a love of riding motorcycles.

Shawn was both respected and disciplined in every aspect of his life, yet he could also laugh at himself, teaching us the importance of this in a life well lived. He made deep and enduring friendships that he cherished, but none as much as his life long friendship with Charles Michael “Mike” Nall, whom he looked to for wisdom and advice even up to his very last decision in this life.

True to form, many of Shawn’s achievements could only be found by way of plaques and certificates tucked away, as he was not one to seek accolades from those around him. He had a heart and soul that family, friends and caregivers will miss deeply. While we are most saddened by his loss, we are also relieved by it because Shawn has been battling debilitating medical conditions for a long time.

Left to carry Shawn’s spirit – and we will – are his beloved wife Karen Sue (Sligar) Hancock of Cincinnati, AR., children Kelly (Hancock) Blundell and husband Harrison Blundell of Springdale, AR. Madilynn Eva Marie Hancock of Cincinnati, AR., Kenneth “Kenny” McGarrah of Cincinnati, AR. and Aaron McGarrah of Kansas City, Kansas, his two grandchildren; Mia Grace and Lilah Reese Blundell of Springdale, AR., his brother Norval Hancock of Stilwell, OK. and many other dearly loved extended family members.

Shawn will have a family ceremony at the Fayetteville National Cemetery with full military honors where he will be placed in the wall with the other respected men and women who have proudly and courageously served their country. A celebration of Shawn’s life will be held on February 22, 2019 at Trinity Pentecostal Church in Siloam Springs, AR.

Shawn’s family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the Walker Heart Institute, and to Circle of Life Hospice, for their loving care, attentiveness and for keeping Shawn comfortable right to the end. Thanks to Dr. Ted Fish for his excellent care as well.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that you consider a donation to https://www.dav.org Disabled American Veterans Auxiliary . Shawn would like that.

Graveside at 1:00pm Friday February 7th at Fayetteville National Cemetery.

Online condolences www.WestfieldChapel.com