Lauren Nicole Shields

Lauren Nicole Shields of Stony Point, NY, 26 years old, passed away peacefully surrounded by her loving family on June 26, 2026. She lived a life filled with extraordinary courage, love, and purpose. She is survived by her devoted mother, Jeanne Shields; father, David Shields; her brother, Brandon Shields; sister-in-law, Stephanie Shields; her beloved nephew, Stephen Shields and grandmother, Mary Varieur. She is also survived by her many uncles, aunts, cousins, and a large extended family and countless friends who loved her dearly.

Lauren was born on April 13, 2000. From the time she was a child, Lauren faced challenges that would have overwhelmed most, yet she met every obstacle with strength, determination, and an undeniable spirit that inspired everyone around her. At the age of nine, she received the gift of a heart transplant, a second chance at life that she embraced with gratitude every single day. In 2020, she received the gift of a kidney transplant from her mother, a bond that was the heart of both of their lives.

Lauren never let her medical journey define her. She was vibrant, kind, fiercely loyal, and full of life. She had a beautiful smile, a great sense of humor, and a way of making everyone feel special. She loved her family, her friends, her office family at LiveonNY, music, the beach, the many pups she oftened cared for and most importantly she loved to help others. Her strength, resilience, and positivity left a lasting impact on all who knew her.

Even in her passing, Lauren continued her mission of helping others. She was a tissue donor, giving the gift of healing to those in need. Her final act of generosity is a reflection of the compassionate, selfless young woman she was. Through Lauren’s Law, which she helped pass, she also leaves behind a powerful legacy, raising awareness and encouraging others to register as organ donors, bringing hope to countless families across New York.

Visitation will be held at Michael J. Higgins Funeral Home, 321 South Main Street, New City, on Wednesday, July 1, and Thursday, July 2, from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

A Funeral Mass celebrating Lauren’s life will be held on Friday at 10:00 a.m. at St. Augustine’s Church, New City.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you consider registering as an organ or tissue donor or making a donation in Lauren’s memory to LiveonNY the organ procurement organization that supports and educates transplant donors and recipients.