Brownwood Fireman, Lt. Shannon Stone was laid to rest on Monday, July 11, 2011, as friends, family, emergency personnel from across the state and the Patriot Riders motorcycle club came to pay their respects.
The funeral began at 11am, filling the First United Methodist Church and Brownwood High School parking lots as well as the nearby neighborhoods with blocks of vehicles of mourners. Brother firemen carried Stone’s body from the church, serenaded by bagpipe, and placed him on the “Quint” fire truck, a tradition at firefighter funerals, to carry him to the Jordan Springs Cemetery.
Stones’ comrades and coworkers walked solemnly with family behind the truck carrying Stone in formation to honor his memory.
Approximately 47 vehicles from departments from across the state came to honor Stone and drove their fire trucks and ambulances in the procession. Abilene Fire Department managed Brownwood Fire Department Station 1, while Coleman Fire Department managed BFD Station 2 so that Stones coworkers could participate in the funeral. The Brown County Sheriff’s Department, Texas Department of Public Safety and Early Police Department supported the Brownwood Police Department with traffic control. The Abilene Police Department led the processional with two motor officers. Other police departments sending motor officers to help with traffic control and the processional were San Angelo, Coleman, Clyde, and San Saba County Sheriff’s Office.
The public lined the streets along the funeral route, many with flags, to honor and say goodbye to one of Brownwood’s finest.
Brownwood Mayor Stephen Haynes issued the following statement regarding the support shown by the community:
“On behalf of the City of Brownwood, I want to thank everyone for their tremendous support during this difficult time. The citizens of Brownwood have paid a great tribute to Shannon Stone and his family, and we have all been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support from across Texas and even the nation. Although this event was tragic, we will never forget the kind words, condolences and financial support. We hope everyone will continue to keep Lt. Stone’s family in their thoughts and prayers.”
Mayor Haynes also encouraged those who wish to contribute to the Stone Family, to do so online by visiting www.brownwoodchamber.org or texasrangers.com/fund.
Shannon Stone Memorial Fund Established – How You Can Help
Please see photo gallery and video gallery below. Some photos contributed by Miranda Benefield.
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