Dennis Wayne Shields

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Nancy, his son, Brent Shields, his daughter, Ellison Uzzell, his daughter, Rebecca Shields, and his sons-in-law, Ben Uzzell and Scott Milo. Beloved grandchildren are Cameron Milo, Wilson Uzzell, Avery Cressaty, Nora Uzzell, and Frances Uzzell. His role as “Poppy” to these 5 was, in his heart, the most important role he played. Dennis is also survived by his sister, Jerry Jones (Bennett) of Auburn, his sister, Vickie Stanfield (Al) of Opelika, and his brother, Guy Shields (Denise) also of Opelika. Dennis was blessed with many nieces and nephews who are scattered all over the country.

Dennis was born on March 27, 1950, in Auburn, Alabama. He graduated from Opelika High School in 1968. He graduated from Auburn University and then The University of Alabama School of Law in 1976. He served as an Assistant District Attorney in Tuscaloosa County, then was in private practice for over 30 years.

Dennis was an enthusiastic gardener. He took classes and became a Master Gardener. He was a talented woodworker, filling the homes of family and friends with beautiful bowls that he turned and furniture that he made. If you received something from Dennis’s workshop, consider yourself loved and lucky!

He was happiest, though, when he was hiking with friends. From the trails at DeSoto State Park, to the Presidential Range in New Hampshire, to the Swiss Alps (admittedly one of the tiny ones) – he had great times walking in the woods. When he discovered the tiny town of Mentone, Alabama, the love of hiking was complete. Mentone was his happy place.

Dennis was a past member and former president of Tuscaloosa Civitans, a member of the county and state Bar Associations, and a long-time member of Forest Lake United Methodist Church and the Friendship Sunday School class.

He was a great believer in having chocolate every day and sampling ice cream anywhere it was available. Give him sweet tea with lemon, and he was set.

The family thanks our dear family and friends who have supported us in every way throughout this long journey. You have been our rocks.

Instead of flowers, we suggest donations to Forest Lake United Methodist Church, Hospice of West Alabama, the Alzheimer’s Association, or the Lewy Body Dementia Association.

A celebration of life will be held at Forest Lake United Methodist Church on November 7, 2025, at 11:00 am. Visitation will be one hour before the service at the church.