The English guitar improvisor, who I largely knew of because The Wire magazine idolized him. He also wrote a book which I should read.
This post by Peter also sums up my feelings.
WFMU has a lovely tribute, as does The Guardian.
and drank too much coffee

Shannon O’Neill – Let the Dead Bury the Dead (1996, 192kbps, 7′00″, 9.63MB)
My piece from The Night Air Audiotheque:
Shannon O’Neill – Heaven Tonight (2005, 192kbps, 7′45″, 10.6MB)
For Charles
no one deserves to have had a life so full of tragedy. you were so brilliant, so sweet. if only we’d loved you better. i do believe i failed you. you were my brother and i took our love for granted. i’m so sorry. i hope you’re at peace now.