William "Shifty" Shea

Born in Fall River, a son of the late Louis A. Shea, Sr. and Mary F. (Lowney) Shea, he had been a lifelong resident of the city.

A graduate of Coyle and Cassidy High School, he worked for the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and Corcoran Supply Company for many years. He also worked as a bartender at Billy’s Café and Horse Feathers.

A Veteran of the United States Army, he served in the National Guard for 35 years as Sergeant Major and was the highest ranking N.C.O. in the state.

Mr. Shea was one of the co-founders of the Federal Little League of Fall River in 1951. He was a coach for the Fall River Little League, an assistant coach at Rhode Island College, the Community College of Rhode Island, and Bishop Connolly High School, and spent his summers at Bay State Baseball Camp. He enjoyed being with his family, especially his grandchildren and great-grandchild.

He is survived by one daughter: Lisa M. Chagnon and her husband Michael of Dighton, two sons: William J. Shea, Jr. and his wife Margarita of Fairhaven, Brian E. Shea and his wife Loryn of Somerset, five grandchildren: David and Amy Louise Bousquet, B.J., Jack and Lydiannah Louise Shea, one great-granddaughter: Mya Fontaine, and many nieces and nephews. He was the brother of the late Fire Chief Louis Shea, Jr. and Margaret Caulkins.

His Funeral will be held on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 at 9:00AM from the Waring-Sullivan Home of Memorial Tribute of Cherry Place, 178 Winter St., Fall River, followed by a Funeral Mass at 10:00AM in Holy Name Church, 709 Hanover St., Fall River. Visiting hours Monday from 4:00 to 7:00PM. Contributions in his honor may be made to Bishop Connolly High School, 373 Elsbree St., Fall River, MA 02720 for tuition assistance. Burial in St. Patrick’s Cemetery, Fall River.