Severus of Avranches was a seventh-century French prelate born to a peasant family on the Cotentin Peninsula. Originally a shepherd, he entered the clergy and progressed through various roles, serving as a monk, priest, and abbot. He eventually attained the position of bishop of Avranches, though historical accounts suggest he was forcibly taken from his forest cell by local clergy to receive consecration. Later in life, he stepped down from his episcopal duties to return to a monastic existence.