- Date Of Birth: April 9, 1922
- Date Of Death: April 14, 2014
- State: New Jersey
Deacon Raymond A. Shea Obituary Raymond A. Shea, 92 of Toms River died Monday April 14, 2014 at his residence. He was born in Newark, NJ April 9, 1922 at his home on 24 Hawkins St., to Thomas and Mary Shea; immigrants from Cashel, Ireland, Co. Tipperary. Raymond volunteered to serve his country; joining the U.S. Navy in August 1942. He served until Dec. 4, 1945 aboard the Battleship USS Indiana, which, was in 12 major naval. Battles in the Pacific during WWII. Deacon Shea returned from duty to join the Newark Fire Dept. in June 1947.
Raymond was assigned to Engines’ 7 and 9 serving 30 yrs. during the some of the busiest years in Newark Fire Dept. history. Raymond spent 61 years devoted to his beloved wife Eleanor G. Helmstetter and their six children. They settled in North Newark and became active in Our Lady of Good Counsel’s parish. Deacon Shea was ordained in the Archdiocese Newark on December 12, 1976 and relocated to the Diocese of Trenton in May 1995 where he served 16 years at St. Maximilian Kolbe parish in Toms River. Deacon Shea was known for his dedication to serving Christ’s Church.
Never looking for recognition or having things done his way, but rather humbly serving his Parrish Community for 35years. Raymond was a member of the Knights of Columbus, Essex Co. Police and Fire Emerald Society, Holy Name Society, Legion of Mary & VFW member of post 1851. Predeceased by his faithful parents Thomas and Mary; his loving siblings Thomas, John, Anna Mae, Regina, and his most loyal and loving brothers Victor and Joseph Shea. Raymond is survived by his adoring children Edward & wife Eileen; Maureen & husband Thomas Grabosky; Raymond & wife Sandra; Michael; Anne Marie & husband Timothy O’Keefe; Thomas & wife Noreen; & 18 affectionate Grandchildren and 2 Great Grandchildren.
