Obituary of William Frederick Shea

With broken hearts we, the family, announce the peaceful passing of William Frederick “Billie”, “Junie” Shea, age 85, on February 3rd at the Abbie J. Lane Hospital surrounded by his loving family. Billie was born and raised on Brunswick Street, across from The Town Clock, where he enjoyed his childhood. In his younger years, he was very active in sports including bowling, softball, hockey, basketball, and in his later years, golf. After 28 years working for the city of Halifax and the Metropolitan Authority, Billie retired in 1990. He and Loretta enjoyed 20 years wintering in St. Pete Beach at The Friendly Native Resort where they made many life-long friends. Billie suffered four years from Frontal Lobe Dementia and the effects of declining physical health. In his death, Billie will help the Maritime Brain Tissue Bank conduct research to help other patients suffering from this devastating disease. He is survived by his loving wife of 58 years, Loretta (Samson); his children, Debbie Hamm (Freya), Glenn (Dennette), Susan (Wayne) Bezanson, Linda (Brian) White, and Colleen (Jamie) Mayo. Billie was the proud and adored “Poppy” to his 13 grandchildren, Andrew (Angela) and Bryan Hamm; Lee, Teya, and Dillon Bezanson; Megan (fiancé Geoff) and Gillian White; Baron, Shea, Hazen and Grady Mayo; Maren and Galen Shea; and one great-grandchild Lennon Bezanson. Billie is the last surviving member of his immediate family. He was predeceased by his mother, Ethel; his three sisters Ethel (Robie) Redmond, Mildred (Jim) Mossop, and Marie (survived by John) Bourne; and his two brothers in their teenage years, Maurice and Gerald. Billie will be missed by everyone who knew him. We would especially like to thank his loving niece, Joann Green, for her incredible support, strength and comfort during the last several days. Our family is forever grateful. Cremation has taken place. Visitation will be held at Saint Benedict Church (St. Joseph Room), 45 Radcliffe Drive, Clayton Park, on Thursday, February 11th from 2-4 pm and 7-9pm. Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Friday, February, 12th at 10:30 am at Saint Benedict Church, with reception to follow. Private family interment. Immediate family flowers only. Donations may be made to a charity of your choice in his name. Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to T. J. Tracey Cremation and Burial Specialists, Bedford Highway, Bedford. 902-835-4212. On-line condolences may be made by emailing info@tjtracey.com “With every cup of tea, think of me.”