In memory of Ronald Leslie Shea Sr, who passed away peacefully on March 26, 2023 surrounded by loving family. He was the devoted husband of Joan Frederick Shea (Clews) and loving father of Ronald Leslie Shea Jr, and Sean Patrick Shea. He will be deeply missed by all who knew him. A long time resident of Hull, MA, he was one of the coolest dads in the neighborhood. “Mr Shea” would load up his van with BMX bikes and many of the neighborhood kids for racing every Sunday at the South Weymouth BMX track. He was also a master at telling corny dad jokes, one liners and puns.
Born in Boston, Ma, Ronnie graduated from Jamaica Plain High School in 1956. After high school he proudly served in the U.S. Navy as a Machinist Mate onboard the aircraft carrier USS Antietam (CV-36). After his naval service, Ron returned to Boston to work as a hostler at the Boston Police Stables. After 43 years with the Boston Police, Ronald retired as the Chief Foreman Hostler. In 1964, Ronald also had a speaking role in the Disney movie “The Tattooed Police Horse”, which was filmed on location at the Boston Police Stables.
He is survived by his wife Joan Shea (Clews), his son Ronald Shea and Donna (Colby), son Sean Shea and Jessica (Wagner), grandchildren Skylar, Mark, Emmaleigh, Ethan, and Hayden, Step Children; Laura Hadley, Robert Strange, Michael Strange, Timothy Strange, many nieces and nephews including; Kathleen, Mary, Cindy, Kerri, Harley and numerous other relatives and close friends. He is also preceded in death by his brothers Joseph Shea, Bobby Shea, and Billy Shea, as well as his step-daughters Karen Modica and Kathi Rector.
Our father was a true role model who we will always look up to. Friends and relatives are invited to pay their respects. The funeral service will be held at Casper Funeral home in South Boston, MA on April 6, 2023 from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM. Burial services will be held at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, MA on April 7, 2023 at 12:30 PM.
Father, you are now at peace but you will live on forever in our hearts. We love you so much. Rest in peace