Pennie James McShea

Pennie Sue McShea, a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, who opened her heart and home to family and friends, passed away peacefully Thursday, June 25, 2020. She was 81.

Pennie is preceded in death by her parents Henry “Bud” James and Helen June Clothier James, her sister Patsy Joanne McGee, and brother-in-law Gerald McGee.

She is survived by her husband Kenneth McShea, brother Gene James, son Jeffrey and daughter-in-law Heidi, daughter Pamela and son-in-law Daniel Von Bargen, daughter Jill and son-in-law Brooks Betz, grandchildren Christopher and wife Kristen, Brian and wife Regina, Katelyn, Connor, Sean, Matthew, Hunter, Kelly, Samantha, Rachel, great-grandsons Patrick and Luke, her many beloved nephews, nieces, cousins, and countless friends.

Pennie may not have been famous and the world may not have known her name, but in the eyes of her family, she was the world. Grandma was by far her favorite name of all.

Pennie was born on September 24, 1938 at the family home in Rockford, Illinois. The family moved to New Jersey in the 1940s, settling in Newark in support of the WWII industrial effort. Pennie attended Alexander Street Grammar School and West Side High School. In high school, she fell in love with Kenneth “Kenny” McShea. They married on October 5, 1957. Pennie and Kenny started their family in Newark before moving to Springfield, NJ in 1971 where they resided for almost 30 years, along with their children. When finally achieving empty nest status, Pennie and Kenny retired to Lancaster, Virginia and Palm Springs, Florida. Five years ago, Pennie and Kenny migrated south to make Florida their full time home.

In addition to caring for her family of five, Pennie worked part-time and full-time, at the New Jersey Bell Telephone Company, Abbott’s Ice Cream Company, and the Clinton Milk Company in Newark, N.J.

Pennie cherished her family and friends. Her home was always open to enjoy a hot meal and to hang out; everyone was welcome. She loved to cook for her family and friends and especially host a party. From British Pot Roast to a pot of authentic Italian gravy, Sunday dinner was always special. At Pennie’s home, there was always enough food and love to go around. During the craziness of a McShea family Thanksgiving, she was often seen sitting quietly and grinning from ear to ear watching the entertaining family that she raised.

Her favorite pastimes to share were televised NY Giants football games and her kitchen window hummingbird feeders. From dinners to football parties to hummingbird feeders, her love attracted everyone.

Pennie was a one in a million. The memories shared will live on through her husband, children, grandchildren, family, and countless friends and colleagues.

A memorial service will be held at a later date when we can all be together again.

In lieu of flowers, please feel free to make a donation to your local animal shelter in Pennie’s name.

Rest in peace and eternal love Pennie Sue McShea.