Gertrude Shea, a.k.a. Gertie, passed away on July 7, 2024 just shy of the age of 92.

She was born in Somerville, MA, on July 13, 1932, lived for forty years in Ossining, NY, had a short stint back in Massachusetts in Weston, before settling with her husband in Clermont, FL for 13 years.  She then moved to Louisville, KY until February of this year and peacefully passed away surrounded by family in Falmouth, MA, completing a full circle of living.  Gertrude was the beloved wife and high school sweetheart, of the late Paul V. Shea, who predeceased her in December, 2019 after 63 years of marriage.

Gertrude was the sister of the late John, Catherine and William O'Brien and Mary Joy and the daughter of the late John H. and Eileen J. (Mageary) O'Brien.

Gertrude is survived by five children, eleven grandchildren and six, soon-to-be eight, great grandchildren:  Kathleen (Mark) Ruggiero and sons Matthew and Casey (Emily) and great grandchildren, Noah and Grace; Paul V. Shea Jr. (Gigi) of Orlando, Fl, and son Ryan (Erin) and great granddaughters Sloane and Quinn, and daughter Lauren (Billy) and great granddaughter Shea and great grandson, Will; John B. Shea (Rose) and son Alex (Gina) and great grandson A.J. and great granddaughter Lucia, and daughter Katy (Dominic) and coming next month, great grandson Dominic Giovanni; Maureen (Barry – deceased) Somervell and sons Michael (Shelby) and great grandson coming soon, son Jack (Maggie) and daughter Meghan; William (Libby) Shea and sons Will and Andrew.  Gertrude was also predeceased in death by her youngest child, son, Christopher James Shea, who died in 2002.

Gertrude graduated from St. Clements High School and after a brief career with New England Bell, she and Paul were married and started their family and life together.  Gertrude and Paul moved from the Boston area to Westchester County, New York in 1964 where they raised their large family and enjoyed forty fabulous years.  In New York they had many treasured friendships many of which evolved around Sleepy Hollow Country Club where they were members for almost 50 years.  It should be noted that while her husband, Paul, switched all sports allegiances to New York teams with their move, Gertrude remained a fervent fan of all her Boston teams, most notably the Boston Red Sox and New England Patriots.

Gertrude was devoted to her family and was beloved by all of her children and grandchildren.  She was known for her quick wit, unwavering loyalty and friendship, her nurturing spirit and open heart, and she created a welcoming home for all who needed it.  She never met a stranger and was often referred to as a second mom by many.

The family would like to express grateful appreciation for the many friends and family members who kept in touch with her, particularly in the years since her husband's death.   Gertrude was a devote Catholic and her deep faith brought her much comfort.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated on Friday, July 12 at 10:00 a.m. at St. Theresa's Church, 1394 Pleasantville Road, Briarcliff Manor, New York.  Visitation will be 4:00-8:00 pm, Thursday, July 11 at Waterbury & Kelly Funeral Home, 1300 Pleasantville Road, Briarcliff Manor, New York.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial contribution in her honor can be made to Samaritans, Inc., Boston, in memory of Christopher Shea.   https://samaritanshope.org/

In lieu of tears, make someone smile.  She would love that.