Stephen F. Shea

WORCESTER – Stephen F. Shea, 72, of Worcester, died Monday, April 1, 2024 at UMass Memorial – University Campus, after a sudden illness.

He leaves his better half, Jacquelyn M. Stein, two sons, Chris and Tim, two daughters, Tracy and Karen; Jackie’s children Lisa Gregory and her children Kurt and Kevin; Jason Stein and his wife Carrie and their children Sari and Lyla; a brother Kevin M. Shea and his wife Joan of Clinton, and a sister Denise Kelley and her partner Mark Kennedy of Worcester.  He was Grumpa to 11 grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren (and one due in May).  He also leaves many nieces and nephews.  Stephen was predeceased by two brothers, Paul R. Shea and Bernard P. Shea.  He was born in Worcester, son of the late Paul F. and Gladys T. (Swallow) Shea.  He graduated from North High and the former Worcester Industrial Technical Institute (WITI). 

Stephen worked in the facilities department at the College of the Holy Cross for over 20 years.  He was a member of the American Legion Quinsigamond Post 318 on Greenwood Street.  He worked harder than anybody, was a passionate jack-of-all trades, and enjoyed cooking for everyone.  He loved music, playing in several local bands including New Breed.  He played guitar and keyboard. 

Stephen’s family would like to thank the Lakeside 2 ICU staff at UMass Memorial, especially Sean, Michaella, Nancy and Britain, for their exceptional care.

Calling hours will be Friday, April 5, 2024 from 10:00 -11:30 am with prayers at 11:30 at Rice Funeral Home, 300 Park Ave, Worcester.  Burial will be private. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Veterans Inc, 69 Grove St, Worcester, MA 01605 (veteransinc.org), or to Project New Hope Inc, 70 James St, Suite 155, Worcester, MA 01603 (projectnewhopema.org).There will be a Celebration of Life for Stephen at 3pm at the Quinsigamond American Legion Post 318, 180 Greenwood St Worcester on Friday April 5, 2024.