Thomas J. Shea, 68, passed away on January, 14, 2025 at his home in Brick, New Jersey. Born on October 30, 1956 to Lavern M. Fischer Shea and Thomas J. Shea Sr., he attended Saint Rose Grammar School in Belmar, before attending Admiral Farragut Academy in Pine Beach in 1974. He served in the United States Coast Guard Reserve from 1982 to 2003, and worked in Federal Security at Lyons VA Hospital. Tom’s primary responsibility was facility physical security which included maintaining access systems, coordinating emergency responses and communication. He also tasked with inspecting the physical security at many smaller VA clinics around New Jersey.  His dedication at the VA Hospital allowed him to reach out to the veterans from WWII through Vietnam, connecting with and allowing them to open up about their experience while helping to guide them through the VA System. Additionally, Tom worked in the USCG Reserve Small Boat Search and Rescue at Shark River and Manasquan River and at Governors Island for Port Security.

Tom was a man who marched to his own drum. Born with the highest intelligence and promises, he ventured into the world a combination of mischief and determination. He wanted to work with his hands, entering the Seafarers Merchant Marines, Coast Guard, and a school to build boats. His love for cars gave him comradery with close friends. Cars and auto racing were his passion. He possibly had every car magazine published. He never said the word yes or no, only affirmative and negative. Tom did have an array of friends who, if it wasn’t for them, he would surely have been lost, as, they were always willing to be there for each other and Tom never hesitated to help when he could.

Interment will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025 at 12:30 pm with Military Honors at Brigadier William C. Doyle Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Wrightstown. The family invites you to leave a letter of condolence by selecting the Tribute/Guestbook link above.