News Room

Our hearts are heavy as we now lament the loss of our good friend and former shareholder Shannon Jones, Jr., who died on February 12, 2009, only weeks after the passing of his close friend and long time law partner, Sam Passman, with whom he founded our firm in 1952.  Shannon's honest character, unwavering commitment to his clients and relentless pursuit of justice made him a respected lawyer and leader.  Though his presence is missed, his influence on us will long remain. 

Shannon was born in Kaufman, Texas, on April 27, 1927, the son of Patti Hicks Jones and Shannon Jones.  Shannon grew up in Kauffman and served his country in the Pacific during World War II, first as an enlisted man in the Navy and then as a commissioned officer in Army Intelligence.  Upon his honorable discharge from the service, Shannon returned to Texas, obtaining an undergraduate degree from Texas A&M University and law degree from Southern Methodist University.  In 1950, he began practicing law in Dallas with the law firm of Alexander, George, Thuss & Passman and on January 1, 1952, founded Passman & Jones with Sam Passman.  Soon thereafter, on September 8, 1956, Shannon married the love of his life, Monteal P. (Monte) Jones, in Vicksburg, Mississippi, remaining happily married for over 34 years until Monte’s passing in 1991.

Shannon's law career spanned over fifty years in the practice of civil law and in his latter years primarily in the fields of wills and estates and entertainment law.  He played a vital role in counseling many business leaders, entertainment performers and leaders in the entertainment industry.  Shannon remained closely connected with the music industry, including "ghostwriting" for many artists primarily in the Country and Western field, such as Bob Wills and other successful songwriters.  Shannon was also a champion of artist’s copyrights and fair compensation for their works.  He was a pioneer in the industry who wrote many of the first statutes protecting the works of artists like Buddy Holly long after their careers had ended.  Shannon’s personal concern for his clients also extended well into their elder years as he guided them through the estate process and often personally saw that their care needs were met.  His compassionate cards and letters regularly received by friends and colleagues alike are among the many things for which he will be fondly remembered.