Michael Justin Shea was born on April 22, 1971 in Metairie, Louisiana. He passed away on February 6, 2024, at the age of 52 in Virginia Beach, Virginia.
Michael was preceded in death by his beloved parents, Robert J. Shea and Joan Duffy Shea. He is survived by his siblings: Robert Jr. (wife Lauri), David (wife Terri), Richard (wife Elizabeth), Garrett (wife Nancy), and Maryann (husband Andrew Bright). He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews and cousins. Michael had a deep, abiding love for his family and a strong faith.
Michael led a courageous and adventurous life. He was born with spina bifida and overcame many obstacles. Michael persevered through life with stamina and dignity. He was an inspiration to his family and everyone who knew him.
Michael lived most of his life in Virginia. He lived first in Burke, Virginia, where he graduated from Fairfax High School. He moved to Virginia Beach with his father after the death of his mother, to be close to his loving sister. Michael lived in Atlantic Shores and was a member of Star of the Sea Catholic Church in Virginia Beach.
Michael loved to swim and go to the beach with his family. He enjoyed participating in adaptive surfing events with the Life Rolls On Foundation.
Michael’s family would like to express deep gratitude to the health care workers and attendants who cared for him over the years, particularly Malika Johnson. The family thanks the wonderful nurses and technicians at DaVita Oceana Dialysis who helped Michael in his last months.
A Mass of Christian burial will be held at Star of the Sea Catholic Church on Friday, February 16, 2024, at noon. The Church is located at 1404 Pacific Avenue, Virginia Beach, Virginia 23451.
Interment will be held on Saturday, February 17, 2024, at 2 p.m. at Fairfax Memorial Park, 9900 Braddock Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22032.
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Life Rolls On Foundation or to the Spina Bifida Association, 1600 Wilson Boulevard, Suite 800, Arlington, Virginia 22209.
