Shannon Baldwin

Shannon K Baldwin (66) passed away on December 26, 2025. She was born February 3, 1959 to parents Irl and Carolyn Baldwin in Albuquerque New Mexico. She is survived by brother Lance Baldwin, Ruthie Baldwin (wife), Jerrod and Jesse Baldwin (nephews) and lifelong partner Rhea McDevitt.

Shannon graduated from Sandia High School in 1977. As an accomplished rider, she pursued Jockey school in Kentucky. Shannon was a practice rider and scooped horse stalls for a year before deciding to attend Surgical Tech School in Texas. She graduated in 1979 with an Associates Degree. She began her career as a operating room surgical scrub tech at UNM Hospital, where she continued her career for 36 years. As a preceptor, she taught many medical students, and loved to teach. Shannon was legend for her shenanigans, practical jokes, pranks and colorful language. She had an infectious laugh, was loved and respected by her colleagues. She retired from UNMH in 2016.

Shannon explored and excelled in many endeavors. Shannon was a passionate softball pitcher and enjoyed many tournament victories. That passion drove her to excel in all her hobbies such as golf and poker. Shannon would hold poker house parties with good friends and good food. She was also a competitive tournament player. Shannon explored her artistic side with humorous collages which often turned into refrigerator magnets and binders. Shannon was a movie buff, but especially loved gore and horror movies.

Shannon also enjoyed camping. She was an avid angler, and could coax fish out of any stream or lake.

Shannon was raised with many exotic pets, including a monkey, armadillo, raccoon, python and an African grey parrot. In her mischief, she taught the African Grey some choice phrases. Shannon loved her horse and menagerie of ferrets, dogs, Burmese cats, rescues and chickens.

Shannon loved to garden and cook, hosting many meals with friends over wine. Lots of wine.

Shannon lived life on her own terms. Underneath her ornery persona, she was a kind and gentle soul.

She will be deeply missed.