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James A. Shea, Sr.
September 29, 2019

James A. Shea, Sr., 73, of South Gibson, passed away Sunday afternoon, September 29 in the Regional Hospital of Scranton after an illness. He recently celebrated 50 years of marriage to his loving wife, Lois on August 16.

Born 1946 in Carbondale, he was the son of the late Harold and Ruth Machell Shea. He was a 1964 graduate of the former Ben Franklin High School in Carbondale and served our country honorably in the United States Navy. He proudly served aboard the aircraft carrier USS Saratoga. Prior to his retirement he had been employed as the Postmaster for the South Gibson United States Post Office for 31 years. In his retirement he worked at the Northeast Auto Auction, where he enjoyed the camaraderie of the staff and fellow drivers. He was a member of the Elk Mt.VFW Post 8488.

Papa Shea, as he was known to his grandkids, truly loved attending their various sports and school activities. He also really enjoyed driving then later building and working on race cars with his friends and family at the local dirt tracks. He attended many races and racetracks in the Pennsylvania and New York region. He was an avid Denver Broncos fan.

Also surviving are sons James “Jamie” Shea, Jr. of Benton, Jonathan Shea and his wife Katrina of Union Dale; a daughter Melissa Lepre and her husband Ryan of Kingsley; his sister Ella Marie Spizzirri and her husband Carlo of Carbondale; his beloved grandchildren Bryce, Conner, Benjamin and Brady; nieces and nephews. He is also survived by his loved, constant canine companion Max.

He was preceded in death by his brother John Shea.

A Celebration of Jim’s life will be held 2:00 PM on Saturday, November 9 at the South Gibson United Methodist Church 2839 State Route 2067 Union Dale, PA.

In lieu of flowers the family encourages memorial contributions be made in Jim’s honor to the Elk Mtn VFW Post 8488.