In Loving Memory of Shannon Steele St. John

VAN WYCK, SC ~ Shannon Steele St. John, a beloved wife, daughter, stepmother, and friend, peacefully went home to be with the Lord Jesus on October 16, 2026 at the age of 56 at her home in Van Wyck, South Carolina. Her warmth and vibrant spirit touched everyone who knew her. Whether she was spending time with family or sharing a kind word, she lived life fully and brought joy to those around her.

Shannon was born on December 19, 1969, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, to Larry and Cherie Steele. She grew up on her family’s farm, known as One Oak Farm, and was a graduate of Indian Land High School.

On October 17, 2021, Shannon married Joseph St. John. They made their home together at the family farm in Van Wyck to remain close to family. Shannon shared her incredible talents as a horse trainer at One Oak Farm. She was a loving stepmother to Mary Hardgrove, Austin St. John and son in law Drew Hardgrove, and a devoted godmother to Miranda and Uriel Gonzalez.

Shannon had a deep passion and love for horses, which led her career as a horse trainer. She participated in many shows, trail rides, and enjoyed camping trip adventures with her family. She loved spending time at the lake, boating, and waterskiing, and she was pretty much a natural at anything she put her mind to.

Shannon also had a great passion for gardening and was particularly fond of hydrangeas and roses. She cared for them with a devotion that reflected Christ's love for us—nothing was insignificant, and everything had a place and a purpose. Health and fitness were also very important to her; she enjoyed going to the gym, taking long hikes, and chasing waterfalls with her husband. Together, they enjoyed working on the farm, raising horses, goats, chickens, multiple dogs, and especially her top love, Eve—an Anatolian Shepherd gifted to her during one of the most challenging times in her life.

Shannon was a true gift to her parents, her husband, and her friends. Above all, she loved God and Jesus, dedicating her life to Him and striving to live every day in a way that honored Him. She cherished every moment spent with family, always baking for family gatherings. She especially loved the holidays, particularly Christmas, as it was all about family and celebrating the birth of Christ. Each Christmas season, she enjoyed visiting the Billy Graham Library and NarroWay Theater to celebrate our Savior.

Shannon lived life to the fullest, never forgetting her friends or her roots. She loved to write and inspired so many with her words, even through her own personal battles. Shannon faced every challenge like a true warrior and overcame them with strength and grace.

She had a deep love for dancing and was truly gifted at it—always bringing grace and rhythm to the room. Today, she is dancing with Jesus, surrounded by that same boundless love and affection.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers from Agape Hospice Care, whose loving, compassionate care provided immense comfort to Shannon as she made her journey home to be with the Lord. Their support was a true blessing during the most difficult time of life.

Shannon is survived by her husband, Joe St. John; her parents, Cherie and Larry Steele; her stepchildren, Mary and Austin St. John; son in law Drew Hardgrove; her godchildren, Miranda and Uriel Gonzalez; her aunts and uncles; and her beloved dogs, Eve & Cujo.

She was preceded in death by her grandparents and her uncle.

Her memory will forever remain in our hearts.

The Celebration of Life Service for Shannon will be at 1:00pm on Thursday, October 22, 2026 at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church, 238 Fort Mill Highway, Fort Mill, SC 29707 officiated by Pastor Carol Tate and Pastor Eric Winstead. Inurnment will follow at a later date at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Wednesday, October 21, 2026 at Burgess Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in Shannon St. John’s honor to: MD Anderson Cancer Center, Houston, Texas.