Sally Shaunnessy Menke

Sally “Amor” Shaunnessy Menke, age 70, passed away peacefully surrounded by loved ones on February 2, 2026, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born on October 16, 1955, in Joliet, Illinois. Sally lived an extraordinary life—one defined by deep faith, boundless love, and a joyful spirit that touched everyone who knew her.

Sally loved her family and friends beyond measure. She married the love of her life, Bill, and together they shared a love story truly written in the stars. For 50 beautiful years, their marriage was rooted in devotion, laughter, faith, and unwavering partnership. Their marriage vows were not words spoken once, but a relentless commitment renewed daily, unwavering through every joy, every hardship, every fragile and formidable moment. Sally embraced her calling as a wife and homemaker with grace, purpose, and an open heart, creating a home that was a constant source of warmth and welcome even through multiple transfers around the country and world.

A woman of profound faith, Sally earned her master's degree in theology from Loyola University, reflecting her lifelong dedication to her Catholic beliefs. Her faith guided her daily life and led her to become an active and cherished member of St. George Catholic Church in Baton Rouge, where she found community, purpose, and spiritual nourishment.

Sally lived each day to its fullest. She was known for her infectious laugh—so joyful that you couldn’t help but laugh along with her. Music seemed to follow her wherever she went; she was always dancing to a song in her head and singing aloud, often inventing her own lyrics along the way. Her joy was effortless, genuine, and deeply contagious.

Her greatest joy came from her grandchildren. Every moment spent nurturing them was a treasure she held close to her heart. Sally is survived by her beloved husband, Bill Menke; her three children, Marsha Menke Hinze, Molly Menke Rose, and Thomas Joseph Menke; and her seven adored grandchildren: Ryan, Carys, and Rhys Hinze; Shaunnessy and Ardan Rose; and Jax and Sadie Menke. She is also survived by her brother, George Daniel Shaunnessy; and her 3 nieces and nephew: Dan and Ellen Shaunnessy and Katie Brenner.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Daniel Joseph Shaunnessy and Florence “Flossie” Elizabeth Shaunnessy.

Sally never met a stranger. Her heart was open to all, and she had an extraordinary gift for making people feel seen, valued, and loved. She extended that love far beyond her immediate family, finding special happiness in traveling—particularly to Northern Ireland, where she cherished time spent with extended family members Kris, Lisa, Alex, and Amy Dunn. These trips were meaningful pilgrimages that celebrated heritage, connection, and enduring family bonds.

Sally’s legacy is one of compassion, joy, faith, and unconditional love. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know her, and in the countless lives she touched simply by being herself.

Visitation will be held at St. George Catholic Church (7880 St. George Drive, Baton Rouge, Louisiana) on February 28, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 11:00 AM with a Mass of Christian Burial to begin at 11:00 AM. A reception will immediately follow in the Kleinpeter Activity Center.

May Sally’s soul rest in eternal peace, and may her love continue to shine through all those she leaves behind.

…and until we meet again, May God hold her in the palm of His hand.