Former Somerville Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay with the late Senator Charles ‘Charlie’ Shannon in 1999. — Photo by Sean Fitzgerald

By Sean Fitzgerald

This week mark’s the passing of a Somerville icon, who died in office 20 years ago last Saturday, April 5, 2005. Not many people know this, but Senator Shannon was actually born in Somerville, and served for 20 years as a Lexington Police Officer.

The next time you are at Dilboy Stadium, go take a look at the plaque honoring his commitment to the youth of Somerville, as he was largely responsible for developing that project. It is in need of a serious refurbishment, but it never made the cut of the previous or current administration’s priority list.

While he lived in Winchester, and also represented Medford and Woburn, the center of his district was always the City of Somerville. You didn’t need to schedule an appointment if you needed his help-and he literally helped thousands of his constituents-all you had to do was stop by Cafe Resmini on Highland Avenue, (now Three Little Figs) around 8 a.m., and tell him that you had a problem, and needed his help. true to form, he would deliver, time and time again! He was definitely old school, unsurpassed at constituent service, was probably the last of the ward healers, and took his responsibility seriously every day. He is deeply missed by all those who knew him and those who called him a friend!

Senator Charles ‘Charlie’ Shannon

Senator Patricia Jehlen, (D-Somerville), who succeeded Shannon—

“As a retired police officer, Sen. Shannon was an important and credible voice on issues of public safety and the needs of young people.  His memory is preserved in Shannon Grants, which promote community safety and reduce gang violence.”

Representative Paul Donato, (D-Medford), who served with Shannon —

“Senator Shannon was a mentor to me and had a profound influence on my life. He was a staunch political ally, a trusted advisor, but more importantly, a close personal friend. Not only did we work on many of the important issues together facing our constituents, but had a personal friendship that extended beyond the State House. I miss him every day.”

Charles “Chuck” Shannon III, statement on behalf of the Shannon family —

“The untimely death of my father, the late Senator Shannon, 20 years ago, was a tragic loss for the Shannon family, his friends, and his constituents. While his passing has been incredibly difficult, we, the Shannon family, are heartened by the continued success of the Shannon Community Initiative which continues to keep my father’s passion for helping young people excel and community engagement as the best way to keep his memory and vision alive.”

Former long time Somerville Mayor and Registrar of Deeds Gene Brune —

“Senator Charlie Shannon was an outstanding elected official that dedicated much of his time working with problems to combat youth and gang violence. First as a police officer for many years and then later as the senator. Charlie was a team player that enjoyed helping others and was known for his smile and great personality. The Senator continues to be missed even today by those of us that had the pleasure of working or knowing him. Thank you for your service, Charlie.”

Former Somerville Mayor Dorothy Kelly Gay —

“I fondly remember Senator Shannon-Charlie as we called him-coming out to endorse my candidacy for Mayor in the 1999 special election. He took me all around Ball Square to meet the people that are the fabric of the neighborhood, and throwing his full weight and organization behind my campaign. He was the best public servant, a hero to the working class, and a true friend of mine.” 

Former Somerville Ward 3 Alderman Robert McWatters —

“Senator Shannon was a champion with his leadership in the Senate on sponsoring legislation in support of programs to reduce youth violence and substance use disorder. He had a penchant in helping the underserved population in getting treatment and help they weren’t able to access. Senator Shannon’s career was over too soon before he was able to make a difference.”