Robert D. Shea
— Robert East Lyme D. Shea passed away at his home in Black Point, Niantic, on Feb. 6, 2023, with his family by his side. Bob was a marathon runner who knew how to pace life to savor every mile and moment along the way. He was a consummate family man: an attentive and loving husband and father to his five children. Bob claimed he had the best of luck to meet and marry Mary Ellen Kelley Shea, his closest friend and partner in life and love.
Bob Shea was the son of Dennis and Mary Frances (Mulcahy) Shea. He grew up in West Hartford attending St. Thomas the Apostle School and St. Thomas Seminary. He graduated from Boston College and later was employed as an executive for Southern New England Telephone for over 30 years.
Bob was a respected and effective civic leader in West Hartford for many years. He served on the West Hartford Town Council, on the Zoning Board and as State Representative. Bob then went on to work at the state Capitol during legislative sessions as well as creating and enjoying a successful construction business with his close friend in Black Point.
Bob loved everything Black Point; the annual Fourth of July parade, clubhouse events, swimming races, the road race and especially the clay tennis courts where he spent hours every weekend playing with friends.
Charity and concern for others was a large part of what defined Bob. He worked with Care and Share and was a regular volunteer at the New London Community Meal Center following his retirement. He was also active in charity with his “Muffin Men” companions in Niantic and cherished their time together.
Bob was a craftsman who intentionally built his home to be welcoming and to share time with visitors, friends and family. His porch was locally famous as a comfortable haven for family, friends, and sports enthusiasts alike. He loved to cheer on the Red Sox, Patriots and UConn basketball teams and in later life enjoyed his attempts at golf.
Bob was a gracious and encouraging father and grandfather. He had simplicity in communicating important ideals effortlessly sharing with his children and grandchildren the values of kindness, appreciation, and gratitude. He used humor as his secret weapon, routinely disarming his children with his good nature so that life was always manageable and usually fun. He lived in the moment. He inspired optimism. He was a gift.
Bob was predeceased by his wife of 66 years, Mary Ellen; and his brother Jack Shea. Bob leaves his children and their families, Thomas Shea, Fran Shea, Timothy Shea (Laura), Mary Liz Williams (David), John Shea (Lisa). Bob also leaves eight grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. He was very grateful for Anita Yakubu’s friendship and care.
Calling hours are from 9 to 10 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 11, at St. Paul, 170 Rope Ferry Road, Waterford, followed by a funeral Mass at 10 a.m. at the same location. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the New London Community Meal Center.