William "Bill" Eugene Shea

William Eugene Shea, 80, of Metamora, IL, passed away on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at Snyder Village Health Center in Metamora.

He was born on July 19, 1944, in Peoria, IL, to Russell Shea and Minnie (Coon) Shea.

Surviving are three siblings: Patrick (Ellie) Shea of Torrance, CA, Nicholas (Susan) Shea of Naples, FL, and Catherine Shea of Sellersburg, IN; and three nephews: Steven (Eri) Shea of Japan, Michael (Tamra) Shea of Asheville, NC, and Christopher (Renee) Shea of Torrance, CA; and eight great-nephews and great-nieces. He was preceded in death by his parents.

Bill attended St. Mary's Grade School in Metamora and St. Francis High School in Cincinnati. He graduated from St. Ambrose College, Davenport, Iowa, with a degree in history, which was his lifelong hobby and passion. After college Bill joined the Army, 4th Battalion, 25th Infantry Division's 9th Infantry. First Lieutenant Shea served in Vietnam and was awarded the Silver Star for Heroism in Action.

After military service, Bill worked in both Peoria and Chicago. He started in credit and retail management and then later moved to wholesales. In the1990s he returned to the family farm and soon after joined the US Post Office in Washington, Illinois, serving as a carrier and then as a clerk. After a long and successful career of 26 years at the post office he retired in 2021.

Bill always treasured our extended family gatherings. He was a master at passing along family lore and researching and helping update our family history. He forever appreciated the simple pleasures in life, and he will be remembered as a man of integrity, dedication, and simplicity. His genuine nature and dry wit left a lasting impression on all who knew him. His brothers and sister will miss their kind brother immeasurably.

A private family burial will take place at a later date at St. Mary's Cemetery in Metamora. Memorial contributions may be made to the Woodford County Historical and Genealogical Society, 112 North Main Street, Eureka, IL 61530.

Woodford County Historical and Genealogical Society
112 North Main Street, Eureka IL 61530