

He was predeceased by his parents, Al and Barbara (Ferguson) Shaughnessy of Braintree, and by his wife, Marianne (Sampey) Shaughnessy of Pembroke. He is survived by his former wife, Lyn (Ruskell) Shaughnessy of Hanover, and his three children: John of Quincy; Jamey (Rose) of Pembroke; and Jill (Allen) Gagnon of Norwell.
He is also survived by his siblings: Kate, and her late husband, Craig Low, of Duxbury; Alie Shaughnessy of Quincy; and Tom and Marisa (DiScipio) Shaughnessy of Hingham. John was the proud “Papa John” to five grandchildren and a beloved uncle to many nieces and nephews.
Born in Milton and raised in Braintree, John graduated from Braintree High School and attended Dean College in Franklin.
John devoted his life to the family business, starting as a teenager washing trucks on Saturday mornings. He advanced to become a truck driver, a rigger, a rigging foreman, and ultimately a member of management in the family business. John was known for his skill and versatility—able to drive any truck, operate any crane, and rig any piece of equipment.
John enjoyed sailing in his early years. He later spent many summers on Martha’s Vineyard, power boating and fishing with his family. His children and grandchildren often shared many cherished memories of their time on the Vineyard together. More importantly, John was deeply loved for his stories, his sense of humor, and his deep pride in his work and family.
Visiting hours will be held at Sullivan Funeral Home, 551 Washington St. (Route 53), Hanover, on Thursday, May 7, 2026, from 3:00 PM–7:00 PM. A memorial service will be held at the funeral home on Friday, May 8, at 11:00 AM.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Buddy and Friends Animal Rescue, 275 Oak Street, Pembroke, MA 02359, a nonprofit organization very close to John’s heart.
Fair winds and following seas.
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