Ann Carson Shea

September 6, 2025

CHARLOTTE - Ann Carson Shea, 55, peacefully passed away on September 6, 2025 surrounded by her family after a four-year battle with cancer. Born in Charlotte, Ann enjoyed an idyllic childhood on “the farm,” riding horses and playing outside with her siblings. She was a student at Charlotte Latin School and Myers Park High School before graduating from College of Charleston where she was a member of the Delta Delta Delta Sorority. With a competitive spirit and the ability to connect with anyone she met, she first worked for nonprofits before a successful career in the pharmaceutical sales industry.

Ann was introduced to the love of her life, Gil Shea, at the wedding of mutual friends in Charlotte, catching his attention by teaching him how to dance the Charleston. They enjoyed 28 years of loving marriage, and together raised their beautiful triplets, Virginia, Gibby and Carson of Charlotte. As a family, they enjoyed dinners every Sunday night, playing pickleball and traveling, especially annual trips to California to visit extended family.

Ann was a woman of deep faith with a love of Scripture. She was a devoted member of multiple Bible study groups, as well as an active parishioner at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church where she taught Sunday School. Ann had recently earned her RYT certification, an accomplishment she proudly achieved amidst her cancer battle – just one example of her tenacity and strength. Ann loved the North Carolina mountains, spending summers at Camp Ton-A-Wandah in the Flat Rock area and later at Grandfather Golf and Country Club with family and friends. She was a member at Carmel Country Club, where she could often be found on the tennis court with her teammates, as well as a member of Charlotte Debutante Club. With a love for children, Ann also enjoyed spending time reading with students at Rama Road Elementary.

In addition to her husband and children, Ann is survived by her siblings, Ginny Cobb (Roger) and Charles Carson, Jr.(Elizabeth) of Charlotte; her mother-in-law, Claire Shea, of Pacific Palisades, California; several brothers- and sisters-in-law; and many beloved nieces, nephews and cousins. She is predeceased by her parents, Charlie and Barbara Carson.

Ann was a friend to all, with a gift for remembering the little details and making everyone feel special. She was graceful, selfless, radiant and kind. Ann’s innate spirit of hospitality brought warmth into the lives of all who knew her. She loved nothing more than her house to be full of her children, family and friends, with music on and candles lit. Everyone was always welcome.

Ann was the epitome of love – sunshine in human form – and we will miss her every day.

“I thank my God every time I remember you.” - Philippians 1:3

The family would like to extend a heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jane Harrell and the staff at H3 Healthcare; Dr. Kathryn Mileham at Atrium Health’s Levine Cancer Institute; Dr. JP McBryde and Vicki Castellucci, RN at Via Health Partners; and Buffy Caldwell and her staff at Eloquent Care, especially Renita Vinson.

Please help the Sheas celebrate Ann’s life at a service at St. Gabriel’s Catholic Church at 10:45am on Thursday, September 18, 2025 followed by a reception at Carmel Country Club. The service will be live streamed at Livestreamed Funerals at St. Gabriel | St. Gabriel Catholic Church | Charlotte, NC

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Jane’s Fund (shinelikejane.org).

Arrangements are in the care of Kenneth W. Poe Funeral & Cremation Service, 1321 Berkeley Ave., Charlotte, NC 28204; (704) 641-7606. Online condolences may be shared at www.kennethpoeservices.com.

Share your memories & condolences

Comments

  • Adriana Medina and Family

    We are very saddened to hear of Ann’s passing. Our condolences to the Shea Family.

  • Sally Hawk & Tom Levi

    Ann is a brilliant, joyful soul whose light will never be extinguished. Peaceful journey to you, Ann. Sending love and peace to her entire family.

  • Gretchen McGinty

    I grew up next door to the wonderful Carson family and attended Charlotte Latin with them, often carpooling with Ann and her siblings-Ginny and Charles. I always looked up to the beautiful, sunny cheerleader and wanted to be just like her! She was a true angel, and will be missed.

  • Mandi Mohammed

    Ann was truly a bright light. I enjoyed getting to know her through tennis at Carmel Country Club. She will truly be missed. God bless the Shea Family.

  • Kim Wilson

    My sincerest condolences to Gil, his children and the rest of the Shea Family. May warm memories comfort all of you at this time.

  • Denise Robertson

    I had the pleasure of taking care of Ann. She was very friendly and humble. She will be missed. Ann you fought a great battle, but GOD needed you more. You are a angel. Much love ❤️ to the family and Friends

  • Stacy Kirk

    I am deeply saddened by this news. I lost touch with Ann but recall well us running around together in our 20’s. I recall one evening going out, she was picking me up and she was telling me all about this guy, Gil, that she just met. She was so smitten. Gil and family, I am so sorry for your earthly loss. I pray for peace to be with you. I will always remember Ann as a cheerful, smiling youthful woman.

  • Cami Bambini

    Blessings to the Shea family during this time. Ann rests in the peace of our Lord’s arms and was a testimony of His grace and love. I/my family are praying for you all. In faith, Cami Bambini

  • Jeff Spray

    Ginny/Roger, we are so sorry for your family's loss of your sister. May she rest in comfort and provide you many memories of a lifetime together.

    Jeff Spray

  • Lisa Harrell

    Ann was the most pure and genuine soul. Her faith and love of family was beautiful to witness. She was a fiercely loyal and supportive friend to me and she will forever be in my heart. I will remember her amazing smile and wonderful laugh forever. Lifting your precious family in prayer and sending our love to you all.

Load More