Sussex County, NJ — Sheriff Michael F. Strada and the entire Sussex County Sheriff’s Office are heartbroken to share the passing of Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator Shannon (Quinn) Thonus, who passed away following a courageous battle with cancer. Her loss is deeply felt across the first responder community, where Shannon was known not only for her professionalism and leadership but for the kindness, strength, and compassion she extended to everyone she served.
Shannon was a proud native of Sandyston, where she grew up surrounded by family and community. She later married the love of her life, Jim Thonus, and together they raised two beautiful children who were the center of her world. Her commitment to her family was only rivaled by her dedication to public service—a calling she fulfilled with integrity and heart.
Shannon’s career in public safety communications began at the Newton Police Department, where she served as a dispatcher. In 2016, she joined the Sussex County Sheriff’s Office 911 Communications Center as a Public Safety Telecommunicator, quickly proving herself to be a vital asset. Her work ethic, calm demeanor under pressure, and unwavering sense of duty led to her promotion to Senior Public Safety Telecommunicator in 2020, and just two years later, to Supervisory Public Safety Telecommunicator.
Over the course of her career, Shannon earned the respect and admiration of her peers and first responders throughout the county. Her contributions were not only measured in years of service but in lives saved—including 10 documented CPR saves, a testament to her readiness, expertise, and care. She was honored with numerous awards and recognitions during her time at the Communications Center, yet remained humble, always focused on helping others.
To know Shannon was to witness grace under pressure, steady leadership, and deep compassion for the people and community she served. Whether mentoring a new dispatcher or coordinating emergency response with urgency and precision, Shannon was a pillar of strength behind the scenes of Sussex County’s public safety efforts.
Sheriff Michael F. Strada shared this tribute:
“Shannon was a true leader with commitment and integrity. Her absence will be deeply felt by all who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside her. She will be missed by many, but never forgotten.”
In this time of mourning, we extend our deepest condolences to the Thonus family, especially to her children, who were the light of her life. We ask the community to join us in keeping them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this unimaginable loss.
Shannon’s life and legacy will continue to echo through the voices of the countless people she helped, the colleagues she mentored, and the family she so dearly loved. She will forever be remembered as a dedicated first responder, a loving wife and mother, and a beacon of strength in the most critical moments.
Rest in peace, Shannon. Your service, your love, and your legacy will live on.
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