Thomas William Shehan

Thomas William Shehan, age 77, of Leesburg, Virginia, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family and under the compassionate care of hospice. A proud U.S. Marine Corps veteran, devoted father, brother, and grandfather, Tom lived a life defined by service, grit, and love. Born on October 16, 1947, in Ottumwa, Iowa, Tom was the son of John and Louise (Morrison) Shehan. As a youth, he was a gifted athlete who especially loved playing baseball. His power at the plate earned him a single-season home run record-a record that stood unmatched for decades and has only ever been tied, never broken. Tom served in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War as a Sergeant with Headquarters Battery, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines, 2nd Marine Division. He was awarded the Presidential Unit Citation, Vietnam Service Medal with two campaign stars, Vietnam Campaign Medal with Device, and the National Defense Service Medal. While proud to be a Marine and deeply respectful of his fellow service members, Tom carried the silent weight of war throughout his life. After his military service, Tom worked as a civil engineer for Washington Gas, where he spent many years helping to keep communities running with dependable infrastructure. Upon retiring, he relocated to North Carolina, where he embraced the simple joys of beach life, fishing, and going to the racetrack. He formed a deep bond with the Carteret County Speedway community, many of whom he considered family. The friendships and memories he made there were among the most treasured of his later years. Tom was the proud father of four sons-Thomas McKenzie, John Franklin with wife Staca, Adam Ward with wife Julie, and Matthew Barlow Shehan-and the adoring grandfather of two cherished grandchildren, Anya and Isla. He loved Anya and Isla deeply, took great pride in their lives, and delighted in their accomplishments. He is also survived by his brothers Dr. James (Mary Ann) Shehan and Tim (Diana) Shehan and was preceded in death by his brothers Dan Shehan and John Shehan. He leaves behind a legacy of quiet strength, loyalty, and fierce independence, along with many extended family members and friends who will miss his wit, grit, and unwavering love for those closest to him. Tom wished to give special recognition to several individuals whose friendship meant the world to him: Carl Gray; Bonnie, Jimmy, and Jake Pratt; Mike and Trish Polizzi; and Mike Saine. Their support, camaraderie, and kindness brought him great joy and comfort over the years. Tom will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery-a resting place befitting his service and sacrifice. In lieu of flowers, the family invites you to honor Tom's memory by doing something kind for a veteran or active-duty servicemember-buy them a beer, a meal, or simply thank them for their service. A small gesture in Tom's name is the kind of tribute he would have truly appreciated. Semper Fi.