Dave Shields

James David "Dave" Shields, 68, of Derry, NH, passed away peacefully in his home on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. He was born on December 5, 1957, in Quincy, MA. Dave is preceded in death by his parents, the late James D. and Jane (Sansom) Shields, and his cherished wife and mother of his children, Donna.

Dave worked as a Software Engineer for Raytheon for 34 years until his early retirement in 2013, at age 55. While working he developed novel test software for the Patriot Missile System, which helped greatly enhance test efficiency, effectiveness and system reliability. He was essential training allies around the globe, reaching as far as Japan.

In retirement, Dave was able to relax, unwind and live freely. He loved his trips to Hawaii, Mexico, Florida and Las Vegas, often with family by his side. He was a fantasy football Champion, playing among friends and family.

In his younger years, he was active in his community and at one time was the President of the Hampstead Civic Club. He was devoted to his sons, in life and sports, as they grew, both in the community and through school. He was immensely proud of the good, kind men they have become. He will always be remembered for his love for his children and grandchildren.

In his early family life, Dave would pack up his family in an overstuffed conversion van for road trip vacations to Disneyworld, or cross-country to Disneyland and National Parks like Zion, The Grand Canyon, Yosemite and many others. He took pride in the care of his Hampstead home, especially his yard, pond and pool, and was never shy to task a chore. The Shields home was well known for having large themed pool parties where people from all over town would come to swim, laugh, and live loving the time spent together.

He is survived by his three sons, Davis Shields and Bobby Shields, both of Derry, and Zach Shields and his wife Sarah of Hampstead, NH; three granddaughters, Lilly, Allison, and Jocelyn; three sisters, Laura Quintal of Nashua, NH, Sharon Morgan of Ocala, FL, and Jessica Riddle of Rifle, CO; as well as many nieces, nephews, and extended family.

Following cremation, memorial calling hours will be held on Monday, January 12, 2026 from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM in the Peabody Funeral Homes and Crematorium, 15 Birch Street, Derry. The burial will be at a later date in the spring in West Hampstead Cemetery, off Rt. 121, Hampstead, NH. To send a condolence please visit www.peabodyfuneralhome.com