Don Odom Shadow, 84, a distinguished fourth-generation nurseryman, horticulturist, and conservationist from Winchester, Tennessee, passed away on Sunday, November 11, 2024. Born on October 19, 1940, to the late Hoskins A. and Minnie Lee (Odom) Shadow, Don was renowned for his exceptional contributions to horticulture and his unwavering commitment to wildlife conservation.
A graduate of the University of Tennessee with a degree in horticulture, Don later served on the Board of Trustees for the university. He was at the forefront of advancing agricultural and horticultural research and education. As the owner of Shadow Nursery in Winchester, he transformed the family business by introducing rare and unique plants to the U.S. market. His domestic and international travels led to the discovery and cultivation of plants ideally suited for diverse American landscapes. Celebrated for his generosity, Don freely shared his knowledge, plants, and insights with others.
Beyond his horticultural pursuits, Don was dedicated to animal and wildlife conservation, raising and caring for rare and often endangered species. His farm was home to over 600 animals across more than 60 species, including Bactrian camels, zebras, water buffalo, red pandas, rare Nubian wild donkeys, bearded pigs from Borneo, and multiple species of cranes, to name a few. He collaborated with national zoos and breeders, sharing his expertise to preserve these rare species.
Don held influential leadership roles in the horticulture community, serving on the U.S. National Arboretum Advisory Council and the boards of the American Horticultural Society, Southern Nursery Association, Tennessee Nursery and Landscape Association, and the International Plant Propagators’ Society. His numerous accolades include the Garden Club of America’s Medal of Honor, the American Horticultural Society’s Commercial Award, and the Southern Nursery Association’s Slater Wight Memorial Award. The Southern Nursery Association also established the Don Shadow Award of Excellence to honor individuals committed to expanding knowledge and use of innovative plants. Through his dedication to plant exploration, breeding, and education, Don left an indelible mark on the horticultural community, inspiring future generations of plant enthusiasts and professionals.
In addition to his professional achievements, Don was a devoted family man. He and Mary Eleanor were married for 56 wonderful years. He cherished time with his Mary, Jennifer, and three grandsons, Elijah, Eathan, and Evan. He loved them so much and enjoyed teaching them farm / life skills such as driving a tractor, shooting, skinning rabbits, and caring for plants and animals. Don would load “his boys” up in the truck and set out on adventures, never knowing where they might end up.
A true Tennessee treasure, Don will be remembered for his energy, generosity, and dedication. His contributions to horticulture, animal conservation, and education have left an indelible mark, inspiring all who knew him.
Don was preceded in death by his parents; beloved wife, Mary Eleanor (Hollomon) Shadow; and brother, Joe Shadow. He is survived by his brother, Fred (Bonnie) Shadow; sister- in- law, Harriet Baggett; daughter, Jennifer Shadow; grandsons Elijah Shadow, Eathan Keller, and Evan Keller, all of Belvidere, Tennessee; and
nieces and nephews, Nancy Hale, Melanie Baker, Susan Shadow Ransone, Sharon Shadow, Holly Berke (Allie & Taylor), Jada Baggett (Everly & Truitt) , Elizabeth Baker, Hunter Taylor, Terry Baggett, Michael Shadow, and Worth Baker. His spirit and legacy will continue to thrive in the plants, animals, and many lives he touched.
A memorial service will be held in the spring. In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to the Don Shadow Memorial Scholarship Fund at Citizens Community Bank or mailed to P.O. Box 6, Huntland, TN 37345.
Moore-Cortner Funeral Home, 300 First Ave NW, Winchester, TN 37398, (931)-967-2222
