Shannon Forde, 44, a beloved member of the New York Mets media relations department for over two decades passed away tonight after a long battle with breast cancer.
“Shannon was a very unique person,” said Mets COO Jeff Wilpon. “I was fortunate to see her a few weeks ago at the rehab facility and had a great time laughing and visiting with her for over an hour. My condolences to her husband, John, two children, Nicholas and Kendall and the Dalton and Forde families. Citi Field won’t be the same without her contagious smile and genuine personality.”
Shannon, a graduate of St. John’s University came to the Mets in 1994 and rose to the ranks of Senior Director. She was a pioneer for women in baseball’s public relations.
Four years ago, Mets General Manager Sandy Alderson and Manager Terry Collins were two of the Mets family who attended a fundraiser on Shannon’s behalf.
“Shannon was an absolute inspiration to everyone in this organization, including me, and I told her so,” said Alderson. “She was courageous in her fight and never let her illness claim her spirit. That spirit will remain with the Mets, in our memories and in our hearts.”
“She fought, fought and fought,” said Collins. “She came to work as long as she could. She loved her job and loved the Mets. I have so much admiration for the way she conducted herself the last several years.”
“Shannon was with me my whole career with the Mets,” said Mets captain David Wright. “She helped me so much when I was a rookie. She worked hard to assist my foundation and helped me get acclimated to New York.”
