Rosemary Shannon

Gaffney, SC - - Rosemary Heath Tallent Shannon, a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away on May 16, 2026. Born January 6, 1945, in Harmony, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late Rosa Candida Miranda and Carl Ernest Heath, Sr. The family moved from North Carolina to Gaffney, South Carolina, in 1975.

Rosemary adores animals, particularly dogs, cats, and horses. This passion for animals led her to work as a vet technician in a local veterinary office. Once leaving the vet's office to enjoy retirement, she cofounded, with her daughter and grandson, Shane’s Kitten Tails, a small cat/kitten rescue. She was often referred to as the “cat lady” for she never turned away a hungry or hurt cat or any other animal. While on walks along the Broad River, she would feed all the stray cats and sometimes name them as well. She was an experienced horseback trail rider who found peace and joy in nature. Animals might have been her calling, for she was one with her faith and was an active member of her church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Gaffney branch.

She is survived by her son, Scott Tallent (Mary Ann), and daughter, Jennifer Tallent Morris, of the home, both of Gaffney, South Carolina; daughter, Vickie (Dean) Reep, of Maiden, North Carolina; and son, Brad Tallent, of Spartanburg, South Carolina. Three bonus children, Shelly Whelchel, Tiffany (David) Toombs, and Chafin Caskey. Seven grandchildren: Shane, Cassidy, and Riley Morris, all of the home; Michael (Pam) Reep and Rockie (Jennifer) Reep of Maiden, North Carolina; Heather Rogers of Gaffney, South Carolina; and Amber-Brook Tallent of Spartanburg, South Carolina. Eight great-grandchildren and one great-great-granddaughter. The cat rescue, her 3 dogs, and one special cat, Rio. Along with several nephews and nieces.

When Rosemary gained her wings, she was greeted by her parents, two brothers, and sister, and by her granddaughter, Jessica Rose, with open arms. As well as her two beloved horses Cody and Maggie, and Joe the German Shepard.

The family will receive friends from 12:30PM until 2:00PM on Saturday, May 23, 2026 at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Gaffney.  Memorial services will immediately follow at 2:00PM at the Church.

Family members are at their respective homes.

“In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made to Shane’s Kitty Tails, 125 Humphries Road, Gaffney, SC 29341.

An online guest register is available at www.blakelyfuneralhome.com

Blakely Funeral Home & Crematory, Gaffney, SC