Timothy J Shays

Timothy J. Shays, 38, of Peoria, Arizona, formerly of Worcester, Massachusetts, passed away unexpectedly on Wednesday, October 8th, 2025

Timothy is survived by his loving wife of 11 years, Andiee Lynch Shays; his father, Stephen J. Shays of Peoria, AZ, formerly of Worcester, MA; his mother, Jo-Ann Mastrovito Flick, and her husband, Paul E. Flick, of Mesa, AZ; his brother, Michael A. Shays of Phoenix, AZ, formerly of Worcester, MA; stepsister, Kathleen Barger and her husband Paul of Gilbert, AZ; stepbrother, Jacob Flick and his wife Nicole of Mesa, AZ; his uncles Gerry Mastrovito and wife Angela of Richmond, VA, and Bob Mastrovito and wife Donna of Worcester, MA, aunt Gina Mastrovito Rossi of Worcester, and uncle Ed Mastrovito and wife Donna of Worcester, MA; and  his Aunt Debbie Shays Francis along with several beloved cousins.

Born in Worcester, MA, Tim moved to Arizona at the age of four. Though he grew up in Arizona, he often visited family in Worcester and cherished those times.

As a young boy, Tim enjoyed playing soccer before discovering his passion for hockey and video gaming. He graduated from Thunderbird High School in May 2005 and went on to proudly serve in the United States Army from 2005 to 2013. Tim completed basic training at Fort Benning, Georgia, and was first stationed in Schweinfurt, Germany, achieving the rank of Sergeant. He concluded his military career at Fort Drum, New York. Tim served three deployments—fifteen months in Iraq, where he earned the Purple Heart, and two twelve-month tours in Afghanistan.

In 2014, Tim married the love of his life, Andiee, and together they shared many adventures—attending hockey games and concerts, playing video games, traveling to California to visit family, and raising their two beloved dogs, Layla and Brady, who brought Tim great comfort and joy. He especially loved Italian Sunday dinners at “Mama Jo’s” house, where he was known for bringing his own container for leftovers.

Tim was a kind and gentle soul with a passion for helping others. He will be remembered for his generosity, humor, and quiet devotion to his family and friends. Though he often kept his feelings private, his love ran deep, and his light will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew him.

Family and friends will gather to honor and remember Tim on Saturday, October 25th. Calling hours will be held from 10:00 to 11:00 AM at Mercadante Funeral Home & Chapel, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester, followed by a Funeral Mass at 11:30 AM at St. John’s Church, 44 Temple Street, Worcester. Burial will be private.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wounded Warrior Project (WWP) in memory of Tim.