Our friend Ed Shea died February 9, 2022. He was born in Chicago on October 29, 1928. His father, the professional featherweight boxer Eddie Shea, lived to age 40. His mother, Ollie lived to age 99. Ed was their only child. Ed served as a paratrooper in the US Army during the Korean War. Upon discharge, he moved to Miami where he once served as Dade County’s property appraiser. He assessed all properties at market value and was promptly voted out of office. In 1958, Ed was a successful, independent business man. He established and ran the “Pampered Pomp” salon in Coconut Grove, with Ralph Lewis. Hairdressing was a logical choice, for Ed, with his Rock Hudson looks, and kind demeanor, he was surrounded by women from the time he was born until after his death. After he closed the salon, he became a collector and seller of unique antiques and collectables, and he travelled far and wide in his quest to find the best. In 1972, Ed stopped drinking and never drank again. He supported many others in doing the same. Ed was a man of faith. He reached a point of willingness to grow along spiritual lines. He loved nature and had many adventures hiking, fishing, and hunting. Ed always had a dog or two, up until these last few years. They were well loved! He made yearly trips to Europe to visit relatives and friends and honor his northern Italian roots. Watching football, and dining out were a couple of his favorite activities. In retirement, he lived in Melbourne Beach, then Worthington Springs, and finally Gainesville. He spent summers near Rockport, Maine, driving back and forth in an RV. Three years ago, Ed moved to the North Florida Retirement Village in Gainesville. Up until mid – December, he was still living independently. He died at ET York Haven Hospice, after a brief illness, surrounded by loving friends. He is survived by many many dear friends, Jane a.k.a ‘weed’, Kipp, Molly, Kathy, Larry, Charlene,C.J, Bruce, Dan, and the friends in Maine. Survivors also include his cousin, Thomas F. Panza (Dottie) and their children, and many distant cousins in Europe and the Chicago area. Ed, we love you and miss you and trust you are enjoying the biggest adventure now and forever as you return to our Creator. Thank you for the many acts of kindnesses, the wisdom you shared, the laughter and the love!
Arrangements were in the care of Milam Funeral and Cremation Services, 311 S. Main St. Gainesville, FL 32601 www.milamfh.com
