James A. Shea Sr.

1936 - 2023

James A. Shea Sr.
July 1, 1936 - May 13, 2023
Bremerton, Washington - James (Jim) Anthony Shea, Sr., 86, peacefully passed away on May 13th, 2023, with family by his side at St. Michael's Medical Center in Silverdale, Washington.
Jim was born on July 1st, 1936, in Greencreek, Idaho, to John and Ida Shea. He attended school in Olympia, WA and graduated from Olympia High School. He served in the United States Air Force for 4 years and was stationed in Japan for a portion of that time. He worked for the Department of Licensing (currently known as Department of Motor Vehicles) as a Driver's License Examiner and Supervisor for 26 years and retired in 1992. He lived in Sequim for over 40 years where he spent much of his life with his wife, Joanne. They relocated to Bremerton in 2018 to be closer to family.
Jim will be remembered for his infectious smile, practical jokes, card tricks, and sense of humor. He could tell a story like nobody else. Sometimes it was hard to determine if he were pulling your leg, but his nose flare would always give him away. He had a twinkle in his eye that was undeniable, and everyone loved to hear his laugh. He loved to go camping. fishing, and playing card games with his family.
He was proceeded in death by his wife Joanne in 2021. He is survived by his three sons Bill (Becky) Duncan, Tony (Veronica) Shea, and Jeff (Jill) Shea. Two daughters, Tonya (Larry) Merchant, and Tricia Hodges. He also has nine grandchildren, thirteen great grandchildren, several siblings and nieces and nephews.
Services for Jim will be held on Friday August 4th, 2023 at 12:00 p.m. at St. Michael Parish at 1055 Boundary St. SE in Olympia, WA. There will be a gathering immediately following the service. He will be laid to rest with his bride at Sequim View Cemetery.
He asked that in lieu of flowers that donations be made to Disabled American Veterans at www.dav.org