Dr. Thomas J. Shields

Dr. Thomas J. Shields, 79, passed away on January 25 after a courageous battle with pulmonary fibrosis. He was the firstborn of Thomas and Eleanor Burke Shields of Staten Island. He attended St. Christopher’s Grammar School, St. Peters Boys High school, Manhattan College (class of 1963) and Downstate Medical College where he earned his MD. He completed his internship and residency at St. Vincent’s Hospital, NYC where he specialized in Obstetrics and Gynecology. It was there he met his wife of 51 years, Patricia Sweeney Shields. They have three children; Colleen Bland of Atlanta, GA wife of Michael and mother to Kelson Kieran, and Keegan; Kerry Shields of Ardmore, PA wife of Bryan Fenstermaker and mother to Davin, Macy, and Grady; and his son Drew Shields of New York City. Tom was a treasured Papa to his grandchildren. From 1972 to 1974, Dr. Shields served in the US Army retiring as a Major. For 45 years, Dr. Shields practiced as an OB-GYN at Lansdale Medical Group and later founded The Center for Women’s Health with his good friends and partners Dr. Bob Filosa, Dr. Dipti Shah, and Dr. Kathy Sappinaro. Shortly after, another friend Dr. Don DeBrakeleer joined them. He enjoyed his work and delivered over 6000 babies in his career. Thomas also served as president of the medical staff at North Penn Hospital, where his practice was affiliated. Tom loved his Eagles, the Phillies, dancing, NCIS, and old cowboy movies. He will be missed by his siblings Dick of Hamilton Canada, Eileen Molina of Staten Island, Paul formerly of Staten Island, Diane Paolicelli of Easton PA, and the nieces and nephews he loved. A celebration of his life with by held at a later date. Info. & Condolences at www.boakesfuneralhome.com