Michael Shannon Spates

04/25/1969-10/01/2026

Remembering Shannon 

Michael Shannon Spates, 57, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his family, on October 1, 2026, at Bethany House. Shannon fought a valiant three-year battle with cancer, displaying a resilience that never dimmed his incredible zest for life or his uncanny ability to make others laugh. Known as someone who never met a stranger, his warmth and humor earned him a vast circle of deeply cherished friends.

Born in Lee County on April 25, 1969, Shannon grew up in the local community and attended Beauregard High School. A proud alumnus of Auburn University (1996), Southern Union Community College (1994), and Lawson State Community College (2012), where he earned his HVAC license, Shannon was driven by a strong work ethic. He dedicated his career to the trade, working for Spencer Heating and Air at the time of his passing.

Shannon's greatest joy was his family. He was preceded in death by his father, Scottie Spates, who taught him how to work with his hands and the love of God. He is survived by his loving and devoted wife, Claudia; his daughters, Abigail Lowery (Nic) and Brooke Scottie Spates; and his mother, Connie Weaver Spates. He also leaves behind his sisters, Stacy Negley (Todd) and Shellie Gregory (Brad); nephew, Easton Gregory, and niece, Elle Palin Gregory; and his sister-in-law, Paola Curtis (Charles); and many dear aunts, uncles, and cousins.

A Life of Love and Laughter

A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Providence Baptist Church, located at 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika, AL 36804. Visitation will take place in the main church starting at 10:00 AM, followed by the memorial service at 11:00 AM. 

The Spates family extends their deepest gratitude to the many friends who helped them navigate this difficult journey alongside Shannon. They also wish to offer a special thank you to the compassionate caregivers at Bethany House and In-Home Hospice for their exceptional care, comfort, and support. 

If you feel led, the family asks that you honor Shannon's memory by doing what he did best: meet a stranger and make them laugh, share the love of Jesus, or do something selfless for someone you don't know.

Shannon's legacy of laughter, strength, and unconditional kindness will live on in the hearts of everyone who loved him.

"For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the LORD. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts."    Isaiah 55: 8-9 (KJV)

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me."    John 15: 4 (KJV)

Arrangements are entrusted to Frederick-Dean Funeral Home.