Julie J Shea

Julie J. Shea, Lindenhurst, IL. “With the Saints give rest, O Christ, to your servant's soul where there is no pain, nor sorrow, nor suffering, but life everlasting.” Greek Kontakion Sunday, February 11, 2024: Julie departed this plane of existence at home, surrounded by family members, many of whom she actually liked. Her devotion to family and belief in God was pivotal to her peaceful transition. Julie was born on March 14, 1944 in Hackensack, NJ, and was preceded in death by her spouse, Jack Shea, in 2021. In addition to being a wife and mother, Julie led a magical and fulfilling life, regardless of who was telling the story. In her mid-teens she was courted by the Radio City Rockettes. Sadly, this career was short-lived, as the Rockets could not manufacture what they described as ”such a perilously-diminutive tap shoe.” Not long after this escapade, Julie was recruited by various NYC “neighborhood organizations” that recognized her cunning and physical prowess. Allegedly, the Yiddish Black Hand extended an offer for her to join their ranks. Negotiations stalled when she learned of the gang’s mis-treatment of horses. Julie also disclosed several rebuffed marriage proposals she directed towards a certain “King of Rock and Roll.” She did her best to not sensationalize this bit of drama, and she remained a lifelong fan. (Note, there is probably no truth to rumors Julie refused second-billing to the man who wore a sequined leather jump suit). Eventually, Julie succeeded to the stage as a comedian and, in her words, “killed it.” Gig led to gig and soon Julie’s tambourine skills were legendary. She was often referred to as the fifth Beatle. Regrettably, this sentiment caused no small amount of household tension as her husband, Jack, also felt he was the fifth Beatle. (Jack could not clap in time, but he believed his mutton chops added depth and gravitas to the mop-topped band’s early airy sound). They both agreed, however, that “Yoko ruined a good thing” but neither held a grudge. Julie was also athletically gifted. She was the NYC Five Burroughs Double Dutch champion four years in a row and briefly held the NCAA dive championship with her invention of the Triple Lindy. She later shared this dive with her good friend Rodney Dangerfield who used it in his 1986 film, “Back to School.” Sadly, photographs from the aforementioned periods are difficult to source. Perhaps cameras from that era could not adequately capture her brilliance. However, evidence of other brushes with greatness is readily available - including her work as an RN, her commitment to foster parenting, and a part-time career as a self-certified private investigator. Her adventures never ceased… Julie is survived by those she affectionately called “her spawn,” John (Linh) Shea, Joanne (Joe) Simonetti, Christopher (Rosy) Shea, and Geovanni (Rachel Toledo) Shea; as well as three grandchildren, Mooseboy Cwis, Angel Face and Little Lulu, who brought her joy and nary a trace of angst during the teen years. She is also survived by two sisters, Connie (Carl) Bernard, and Carol (Charles) Smoak, of South Carolina. Cremation and memorial services will be private, respecting Mom’s disdain for snoops, interlopers and busybodies. Instead, Julie expressed appreciation for performing (at least) one act of kindness for a random stranger to help make this world a better place for her 4 orphaned children.

Julie J Shea

March 14, 1944 - February 11, 2024

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