Kassie "Kass" Townsend Gannon

Kassie “Kass” Townsend Gannon passed away on February 27, 2026, in Inverness, Florida. Born on Easter Sunday, April 19, 1981, in Leesburg, Florida, Kass lived a life defined by love, loyalty, and an unmistakable spirit. Those who knew Kass will forever remember her beautiful, bright smile and her infectious laugh. She was smiling in almost every photo — not because someone asked her to, but because joy came naturally to her. Her smile had a way of making people feel lighter, even on heavy days. She could make you smile through tears and bring warmth into moments that needed it most. Her laugh was unmistakable — loud, joyful, and completely unfiltered. If she started laughing, you found yourself laughing too. It filled a room. It pulled people in. It reminded you that even in the middle of chaos or hardship, there was still joy to be found. That smile, that laugh, and that caring heart all worked together. Kass noticed people. She showed up for them. She made them feel safe, included, and deeply loved — whether it was family, friends, students, or someone simply needing encouragement. She was a devoted wife to Anthony and a proud mother to Blaine, Carter, and Ant, who were the center of her world. She loved fiercely, protected relentlessly, and showed up for her family in every way that mattered. Her love was steady and unwavering — the kind that made you feel safe and seen. Kass was a teacher in every sense of the word. She began her career teaching young children and later dedicated herself to teaching incarcerated individuals at Coleman Federal Correctional Complex, believing deeply in second chances and human dignity. She also served on the Correctional Support Team, offering comfort and strength to colleagues and their loved ones during times of crisis or loss. Caring for others wasn’t something she did occasionally — it was simply who she was. Growing up in Leesburg, she shared a close bond with her sisters, proudly calling themselves “Seesters.” Crystal River held a special place in her heart, and she and Anthony chose to build their life there. After a tornado destroyed their home, they began the process of rebuilding — plans made, the permits approved, hope firmly in place. She was also preparing space in that home for her parents, determined to care for them as she had once cared for her grandmother. Loving her family meant action to Kass, and she was always thinking ahead. Music was woven into so many of Kass’s happiest memories — concerts with friends, time on the river, long car rides, and turning up Reba to sing at full volume. She loved her family beyond measure and never let a day pass without making sure they knew it. Kassie is survived by her husband, Anthony Gannon; her sons, Anthony Blaine Perry, Carter Perry, and Anthony “Ant” Gannon, Jr.; her parents, Charles “Troy” and Gayle Townsend; her sisters, Kourtney Townsend Sulock (Eric) and Kristi Townsend; her niece and nephew, Claudia and Mason Vaughan; and many extended family members and friends who will forever carry her love forward. Though her life was far too short, her impact was immeasurable. She was deeply loved — and she loved even more deeply in return. We will forever see her in the light of a bright smile, hear her in the sound of joyful laughter, and feel her in the way we care for one another. Celebration of Life Service Thursday, March 12, 2026 1:00 PM Heritage Community Church 509 W. Berckman St. Fruitland Park, FL 34731 A reception will immediately follow at: The Brownwood Hotel – Ballroom 3003 Brownwood Blvd. Wildwood, FL 32163 Arrangements entrusted to Beyers Funeral Home of Leesburg, Florida.

Kassie "Kass" Townsend Gannon

April 19, 1981 - February 27, 2026