He retired as a Master Sergeant after 26 years of service in the USMC and was a veteran of three wars and a Bronze Star and Purple Heart recipient. Shawn was a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church and a member of the Knights of Columbus.
A funeral service will be held 10:30 a.m. Wednesday at St. Francis Xavier Chapel, Camp Lejeune. Burial will follow at Coastal Carolina State Veterans Cemetery with military honors.
He is survived by his wife of 18 years, Matilda "Mattie" O'Shea of Jacksonville; two daughters, Ashley and Anna; son, Ryan all of the home; parents, Roger "Peter" and Jessie O'Shea of Andover, Mass.; two brothers, Tim O'Shea and wife, Cheryl of Londonderry, N.H.; Peter O'Shea and wife, Suzanna of Laredo, TX; sister, Kelly D'Ortona and husband, Robert of Nashua, N.H.; paternal grandmother, Memere O'Shea of Manchester, N.H.; great uncle, Jimmy O'Shea of Peabody, Mass.; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.
The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. Tuesday at Jones Funeral Home in Jacksonville.
Private electronic condolences may be left for the family at jonesfh.org or JDNews.com.
Paid obituary
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
David Bolanos
January 9, 2025
Hard to believe we´re coming up on 13 years since the Lord called Shawn to join the ranks in heaven. His memories remain fresh in my mind and heart; and we extend continuous condolences to each of his family members. May God bless each of you always.
Stephen Kirkland
April 16, 2012
Just learned of Sean's passing, I am very sorry for your loss.
Jessie O'Shea
February 11, 2012
Mattie,Ashely,Ryan,and Anna. It is one month ago today that we lost a very special person to all of us. We all have some wonderful memories of him that will live forever in our hearts. Ask God to give us the Strength to carry on . and He will listen. Papa and I love you all very much. and we will miss him Always. Love and prayers Grammy and Papa
Christian Pitcheralle
January 24, 2012
I had the honor of serving with Lucky with Bravo 1/12 in Hawaii. Rest in Peace Marine. My prayers to his family and close friends.
Send flowers
Consider sending flowers.
Add photos
Share their life with photo memories.
Plant trees
Honor them by planting trees in their memory.
Follow this page
Get email updates whenever changes are made.
Donate in Memory
Make a donation in memory of your loved one.
Share this page
Invite other friends and family to visit the page.
Burke Family
January 22, 2012
Lighting a candle for Shawn O'Shea after the Patriots win today.
Jason Blume
January 21, 2012
Mattie,
I was shocked and sadnned by Shawn's passing. He was a great man and a SNCO mentor and I won't ever forget the good times and the lessons he taught me, notably that just because a HMMWV has a fording kit, doesn't mean you just take it for a swim! You and the kids are in our prayers. I wish I could have been there.
Semper Fidelis
Maj Jason Blume and Family
January 21, 2012
I'm so sorry to hear about Shawn. He was my brother's dear childhood friend. So many memories of the "Washington Ave gang." My deepest sympathy to the family. Kim Whitworth
Steven Kenney
January 20, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to the O'Shea family. we have known and loved Shawn our whole lives and his passing is a shock to all of us. He will truely be missed. I will carry incredible memories from our childhood.
Robert Carpenter
January 20, 2012
Sorry to read about your loss. I still remember shawn. Tough as nails. America loss a Hero.
Traci Norris
January 19, 2012
Our deepest sympathy to Mattie and the children. We had the privilege of living next door to the O'Shea family and then we discover we both worked at the MHG!! Some of my favorite memories of Shawn include him confronting a Marine who was not making good choices in our neighborhood, and he and Mattie coming to check on me when they heard noises coming from the house (it was our 3 boys jumping on the bed)!!! Shawn was the type of person to get involved and to show you he cared by making sure things were ok and not just turning a blind eye. We are sending our thoughts to Mattie and the children, may you find peace.
Hal Whitworth
January 19, 2012
When I think back on my childhood I am struck by the realization that Shawn is embedded into almost every last memory I have. He was so much a part of the times that helped to shape the man I have become. I have so enjoyed following his career in the military and have felt so proud to have called him my friend. I am tremendously saddened by the news of his passing. My thoughts
are with your family. I send all my love and condolences.
Hal Whitworth
wayne carver
January 19, 2012
So sorry to hear about Shawn my thoughts are with you
Keri Wooten
January 19, 2012
My prayers are with you and your family. You all are a wonderful family and I am truly sorry for your loss. May God hold you all close in this time of grief.
Greg Schaff
January 18, 2012
My deepest condolences and prayers to all the Family. Shawn Fair Winds and Following Seas God Speed you will be Missed
Lt. Thomas E Tuggle II
January 18, 2012
A good marine, May God watch over his family. Semper Fi
Tracy Hawthorne
January 18, 2012
Mattie and the entire family, we are thinking of you and are here for you. Shawn will be greatly missed by all of us who have had the honor to know him.
Dale Swink
January 18, 2012
If the Army and the Navy
Ever look on Heaven's scenes,
They will find the streets are guarded
By United States Marines.
Semper Fi, Brother......
Christina Samsa
January 18, 2012
My deepest condolences to Mattie and her children. I had the honor of working with MSgt O'Shea for 2 years and will never forget him. He was a great man.
January 18, 2012
To the O'Shea family, we are so sorry for your loss. We have never met, but my sister Holly and her family love you so much, that I feel that I know you. Remember that he is now at peace and will be an angel to watch over all of you. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Sincerely, Neal and Karen Thome and family
Brenda Kiser
January 18, 2012
To the O'Shea's family ya'll be in my prayers i am sorry for your lost may God be with ya'll in this time of day may he be with ya'll were ever you go in God's name i Pray Amen
David and Maria Ratte
January 18, 2012
My prayers and condolences to Mattie and the family. He have the honor to meet you and Shawm here in Jacksonville at church and work with him very close in church activities. What a great man!!! Our heart breaks with his sudden loss, and our condolences go out to you, the kids and the rest of the family. God bless you all and give you comfort and strength. Our prayers are with you. Maria and Dave Ratte and family
January 18, 2012
Mattie,Ashley,Anna,Ryan & the O'Shea family, Pete,Jesse, Kelly, Tim & Peter.. you are in our prayers. We are saddened to hear of your loss. Be strong he is only a memory away and always watching over you. Sending our love to all! The D'Ortona Family from Massachusetts
Matthew Stevens
January 18, 2012
Our prayers and hearts go out to your family. I too had the honor of serving with Shawn "Lucky" O'Shea in B 1/12 and have never forgotten his enthusiasm and zest for life. Walk on with God Brother.
Ally Cisneros
January 17, 2012
My heart goes out to you O'Shea Family. You guys became a big part of our Family, We love you. Shawn was a Great Man, Father, Husband and he will be missed. RIP.
January 17, 2012
Shawn you will be missed by many people. Serving with you were some of the most memorable times in my life. You are such a gentleman & left a huge footprint on the world! God Bless you and your family! Shep (Seattle, Washington)
Christina Reyes and Girls
January 17, 2012
Mattie, Ashley, Ryan,and Anna even though we haven't seen each other in years words cannot express how sadden we were to hear of Shawn's passing, may God grant you and your family peace of mind, heart and soul,great friends like you and Shawn are never forgotten, no matter how far. Many blessing be bestowed on your family today and always
Holly Eck
January 17, 2012
We lost our best friend. We will ALWAYS be there for Mattie and the kids. We are so lucky to have had you in our lives Shawn, we love you always. The Eck Family
Rebecca Wagner
January 17, 2012
Mattie, Ashley, Ryan & Anna & the entire O'Shea family..you are in my prayers. I'm saddened by the loss of such a wonderful person. He will never be forgotten by all those whose life he touched! Stay strong & hug each other often. I am sending my hugs to you & the kids Mattie! God bless Shawn for being on watch to keep our freedom!!
Lawrence Archambault
January 17, 2012
"I was lucky to serve with Shawn in Bravo 1/12 over a 6-year period; he was at a core of good Marines with solid character. He was fun, energetic, and always trustworthy. My heart breaks with his sudden loss, and my condolences go out to Mattie and his entire family and closest friends."
Pauline
January 17, 2012
This gentleman came into our business and was so nice it left an imprint. Then we see his picture and realize we have all lost a wonderful human being and Marine. God bless his family and friends and Lord, keep him close cause he sure was a nice nice man that we all will miss dearly.
Adam Stock
January 17, 2012
My prayers and condolences to Mattie and the family. I had the honor and privilege to serve alongside "Lucky" for 3 years, in Hawaii, with Bravo 1/12. He helped make those some of the most enyoyable years of my career. Good man...good memories! Go with God, brother.
John & Lucy Rutledge
January 17, 2012
"Shawn will be greatly missed. He was a great Marine and a wonderful friend to John and I. Mattie, Ashley, Anna, & Ryan, you are like family and will always hold a special place in our hearts. We share in your grief and send you our love."
William Paskell
January 17, 2012
My deepest sympathy for your family and close friends. It was an honor to have served with you. Semper Fidelis!
January 17, 2012
My deepest condolences to the family and friends of this vibrant, "live life to its fullest" Marine. I was fortunate to serve as then Corporal O'Shea's battery executive officer during his time with Battery B, 1st Battalion, 12th Marines. One of my all-time favorite memories of time spent with Bravo Battery was our unit Christmas Party in 1988 while deployed to Okinawa and the fun I had with O'Shea and the rest of the Motor-T and Ammo section Marines! May "Shawny P" rest in peace and may the Lord watch over his family.
Colonel Patrick L. Redmon, USMC
Jay DePinto
January 17, 2012
I am deeply and truly sorry for the passing of such a wonderful husband, father, and friend. I will truly miss Shawn.
January 17, 2012
My condolences to the 'OShea Family. I had the pleasure of serving with Shawn during Desert Storm. May he rest in peace.
Andy Fuentes MSGT
Dennis Burke
January 16, 2012
Shawn O'Shea was a true hero, a warrior and friend. He was a tremendous person and Marine, but those attributes pale in comparison to his dedication and performance as a husband and father. He and Mattie have raised three unbelievable children. Ashley, Ryan and Anna reflect traits only seen in young adults raised with tremendous patience, charity, and an unparalleled love of life. All fostered by Shawn and Mattie's care for the welfare of others and their willingness to always do what is right. Although married 18 years, the affection and joyfulness they displayed with each other led most to believe they were newlyweds. Knowing Shawn, and his family, has been a tremendous gift – it has strengthened my marriage, dedication as a father, and my faith in God.
You and your family have brightened
our lives, and while we look forward to wonderful times with Mattie and the kids – you Shawn, are already greatly missed.
Mary (Reardon) Harb
January 16, 2012
My deepest condolences to the O'Shea family. I will always remember Shawn climbing the stairs of Andiver High after basic training in his uniform. May He Rest In Peace.
Luis Cisneros
January 16, 2012
To My Friend
I am so glad that I met you
Although our acquaintance wasn't long
You have made a big impact in my life
And it is thanks to you
Why I remain strong
Your friendship means the world to me
Believe me, it truly does
And I just wanted you to know that
Now we are going our separate ways
Maybe never to meet again
As long as our friendship holds true
Our connection will forever stand
We may not have been best friends
But that is just a title
For the kind of friendship we do share
Is more active than it is idle
I am going to miss you
I know we said we would keep in touch
But that is what everyone always says
But it never seems to mean much
So this is why I am telling you now
How much you truly mean to me
Because anything could happen in the future
Tomorrow is something I may never see
Yes I am going to miss you
And I wish you the very best
And please always try to remember
That you are truly blessed!
Mark Smith
January 16, 2012
My deepest condolences to your family,He was a good friend.May God bless you all at this time.
January 16, 2012
Dear O'Shea family my heart goes out to you, may God keep you during this time of lost. Anna was in my pre-school class and I have always known you all to be such a nice and beautiful family. Annette Sessoms
USMC Infantry Marine
January 16, 2012
God bless Mrs. O'Shea & Family. Top was an excellent Marine & friend. RIP Marine.
Kathy Reardon
January 16, 2012
With deepest sympathy for the family of Shawn.I have fond memories of Shawn and the boys growing up. He always had a quiet,shy,smile for everyone. He had a special place in my heart.
Kathy Reardon
January 16, 2012
We knew Shawn as a devoted husband, father, son and brother, who served our country with strength, pride and sincerity. Our love is with all of you now. Bob, Leslie Rose & Julia Ganley
Colleen Galvin(Reardon)
January 16, 2012
My condolences in this time of sorrow and loss. May your memories and love of Shawn bring you peace in this time of grieving.
Ken Galvin
January 16, 2012
My deepest sympathies to you in this time of sorrow and loss. I know he was a good man and gave all of us touched by him pride in his memory. Rest in Peace Brother, you have earned it.
PAUL REARDON
January 16, 2012
My coldolences to your family I have great merories of our child hood and can see you went on to influence many people though out your life.
Eric Erboe
January 16, 2012
I just heard this terrible news. I pray for your loved ones, O'Shea. Semper Fi.
Ertin Iriarte
January 15, 2012
REST IN PEACE "MARINE" it was a honor to have served with you in K-Bay, Bravo Battery 1st Battalion 10th Marines....."SEMPER FI"
Kelly Deleski
January 15, 2012
Thank you for your service. You are a true hero. Prayers are with the family.
Barbara Lohmueller
January 15, 2012
All my love and prayers to your family. I feel as if I know you all through Jessie's stories.I work with Jessie in Massachusetts. I was privileged to meet Shawn, Mattie,Ashley, Anna and Ryan during their visit this past summer. God bless you.
Anthony Jones
January 15, 2012
R.I.P., Shawn! Im glad to have served with you. "B" Btry 1/12, KMCAS, HI....1987-1991
Randy Wyatt
January 15, 2012
RIP. It was a pleasure serving with you. My time in the Corps is brighter because of lucky and his 7 course meals. May God bless the family. You will be in our prayers.
Richard Mladek
January 15, 2012
It was a honor to serve with you.
Bravo 1/12 K-Bay 89-93
elisa potts
January 15, 2012
so sorry mattie, my prayers are with you and your family.
Jarrett Pearson
January 15, 2012
R.I.P Shawn, thoughts and prayers are with your family. Semper Fi.
Marcus Volz
January 15, 2012
My prayers and thoughts go out to Shawn O'Shea and Shawn's family. May your Rest in Peace and the light shine on you through eternity. Semper Fi.
Jim Ligtenberg
January 15, 2012
Semper Fi You will be missed dearly You where a good friend Gysgt Ligtenberg Retired Uncle Jim
Big Chris
January 15, 2012
Lucky you will be remembered!!
David & Shima Bolanos
January 15, 2012
My deepest condolences to Mattie, the children, and the O'Shea family. Shawn was a trusted friend and a highly respected leader of Marines by both superiors and subordinates. Our time in Hawaii and during multiple deployments with the gang from Bravo Battery, 1st Battalion, 12th Marines allowed us to develop family-like bonds. We will miss Shawn and continue to pray that the Lord provide the family with patience and understanding of his will, so they can move ahead. Let's all give thanks for our wonderful memories and time spent with Shawn "Lucky" O'Shea. We are better persons because of his existence. Semper Fidelis, Brother!
Brad Twidwell
January 15, 2012
Semper FI, You will be missed.
Our prayers are with you and your family..B BTRY 1/12 87-91
Sharon Morley
January 15, 2012
My deepest sympathy to you. I work with Jessie and my heart goes out to you and your family. I will keep you all in prayers. Peace to you...
Donna, Jacob, & Jonathan Cuellar
January 15, 2012
Deepest sympathy for the family of Shawn O'Shea. We thank him for his service to his country and his family. My son went to school with Anna and we are deeply sadden at their loss. Their father is gone in person, but is an Angel watching over and protecting them. God's blessings.
January 15, 2012
Semper Fidelis MSgt.....
CWO Maria Pettus
Okinawa, Japan
Showing 1 - 64 of 64 results

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more