WATERBURY – Edward F. Shea, age 73, of Waterbury, passed away peacefully in the comfort of his home with his devoted wife and family around him on Saturday, August 26, 2023. He was the loving husband of JoAnn (Mastrianni) Shea, his childhood sweetheart, best friend, and primary caregiver throughout his extended illness.
Ed was born on July 18, 1950, in Waterbury, the son of the late William and Grace (McCormack) Shea. He was educated in local schools, St Francis Xavier Grammar School and Crosby High School and proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. A decorated veteran, Ed was the recipient of the National Defense Service Medal, the Vietnam Service Medal, and the Vietnam Campaign Medal. Ed worked for many years as a driver for New Penn Express and he was a longtime member of Teamsters Local 677. Ed was a lifelong member of the Washington Hill Community Club as he was a son of a legendary Washington Hill family. An avid NY Yankees fan, Ed enjoyed car shows and his family vacations in North Myrtle Beach, but he was most proud of being a devoted husband, father and grandfather. His family always came first, and he will be forever remembered by all who were blessed to know and love him. May his soul rest in eternal peace.
Left to honor his legacy and cherish his memory, besides his wife of 51 year,s JoAnn, are his children; Krista Zaccagnini and her husband, Brian, and Keith Shea and his wife, Amy. He also leaves his brothers, William Shea and his wife Linda, and John Shea and his wife KO. Ed and JoAnn were blessed with three adoring grandchildren: Shea, Chase, and Mya Zaccagnini, and several nieces, cousins and friends. Ed’s family would like to recognize Ed’s best friend Tom Fonti who never missed his weekly visit. Ed was predeceased by his brother James Shea and his wife MaryEllen.
Mere words are a feeble attempt to convey the Shea family’s appreciation and gratitude to all those who visited Ed throughout his illness but especially his Vitas and Care Team; Allison, Sabina, Patrona and Ryan. The love and comfort that you shared with Ed and his family will never be forgotten.
Funeral services for Mr. Shea will be held on Wednesday, August 30, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at Casey’s Eastside Memorial Funeral Home and Cremation Care, 1987 East Main St., Waterbury. Military honors will be accorded to Mr. Shea immediately following the service. Burial is at the convenience of his family. Relatives and friends may visit with the Shea family on Wednesday morning from 9:30 a.m. until the service at 11:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers and to honor Edward's memory, donations can be made to Vitas Healthcare, 199 Park Rd. Ext., Ste 102, Middlebury, CT 06762 Loving-kindness is always welcome, and it only takes a moment to offer a message of condolence, words of comfort, or share a memory with the family and friends of someone important to you. Please visit the funeral home’s tribute page at
www.caseyfunerals.com
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