Robert Kevin

Shea

On a fall Sunday, there was a good chance Robert Kevin "Bob" Shea could be found watching football, talking with friends, or settling into a familiar seat at the Trolley Pub. On a sunny day however, he would likely be out on the golf course. These were some of the simple things Bob enjoyed most, especially when they meant spending time with the people he cared about.

Robert Kevin Shea, age 60, of Willimantic, Connecticut, passed away on Monday, November 9, 2026, at Hartford Hospital, surrounded by family and friends.

Bob was born on November 12, 1965, in Windham, Connecticut, to Richard Allen Shea Sr. and Joan Marie (White) Shea. He grew up in Willimantic as part of a large and close-knit family and remained deeply connected to the community throughout his life. He graduated from Windham High School in 1984 and went on to St. Leo College in Florida, where he earned a degree in Criminal Justice in April 1989 and was a member of the Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity.

Throughout his career, Bob worked in roles connected to public service and the legal system including serving as a Connecticut State Marshal and a bail commissioner. He took pride in his work and in the many people he came to know throughout his career and life in the Willimantic area.

Bob also spent time coaching baseball with the Willimantic American Legion Baseball Post 19, continuing a connection to the game and community that had long been important to him and his family.

Outside of work, Bob enjoyed golfing, watching football, spending time with family and friends, and simply being around the people he cared about. The Trolley Pub became something of a second home to him, where he spent countless hours with friends and made many lasting memories. He was rarely far from some candy, and those who knew him well could probably still hear his familiar "come onnnn" whenever a game, a golf shot, or just about anything else was not going his way. Bob was also known to pick up a lottery ticket now and then, always hopeful that one of them might finally be the lucky one. Bob will be remembered for his sense of humor, his loyalty to those close to him, and the friendships he built throughout his life.

Above all, Bob was proudest to be a father. He always made sure his son, Owen, was taken care of and supported him in every way he could. Bob rarely missed a chance to tell someone that Owen was in PA school and took tremendous pride in watching him work toward becoming a Physician Assistant. Owen always knew that no matter what, his father was in his corner and would be there for him however he could.

Bob is survived by his cherished son, Owen Shea; his brothers, Jonathan Shea and Richard Shea; as well as many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and countless friends. He was predeceased by his parents, Richard and Joan Shea; his sister, Judy; and his brothers, Stephen and Thomas.

Bob's family would like to extend their sincere gratitude to the physicians, nurses, and entire staff of Hartford Hospital's Center 9 ICU for the exceptional care, compassion, and dignity they gave Bob during his final days. Their kindness toward Bob, his family, and his friends during an extraordinarily difficult time will not be forgotten.

Bob's family will receive friends at Potter Funeral Home in Willimantic on Thursday, November 19, from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m.

A brief service and burial will take place on Friday, November 20, at 10:00 a.m. at Saint Joseph Cemetery in Windham. Following the burial, family and friends are invited to gather for a celebration of Bob's life at The Sports Bar in North Windham at 1:00 p.m. All who knew and cared for Bob are welcome to attend, share stories, and remember him in the company of the people who meant the most to him.

Bob will be remembered for the friendships he built, the conversations and laughs he shared, his love for his family, and the lasting place he held in the lives of those who knew him. He will be deeply missed by his son, his family, his friends, and the Willimantic community he called home.