Obituary of James D. McShea

James D. McShea, retired State Farm Agent, dies.

James D. McShea, 80, of Bonita Springs, Florida, affectionately known as Dad, Grandpop, and Uncle Jim by his loved ones, died peacefully at home on December 23, 2020 surrounded by his family. 

Born and raised in Philadelphia, Jim attended Father Judge High School. A talented writer, Jim graduated from La Salle College with a degree in English in 1961 and began his career as an English teacher at Stetson Junior High. From 1962 to 2001, Jim owned a State Farm Insurance agency in Philadelphia, where he was well known for his acumen and ability to form natural connections with people. His office was a pillar of operational efficiency, and in 1975, he set the  state record for the most automobile policy sales in one month.

Jim was a patient mentor who enjoyed sharing his knowledge and hobbies with friends and family. His many interests included scuba diving, underwater photography, fishing, hunting, golfing, canoeing, softball, American history, poetry, maintaining his antique Porsche, and cheering for the Eagles and Phillies. Jim was a 21-year member and former Commissioner of the Northampton Township Adult Softball League while a resident of Holland, PA. While later living in Washington Crossing, PA, Moorestown, NJ, and Bonita Springs, FL, he was a member of the Yardley Country Club (PA), the Laurel Creek Country Club (NJ), and the Worthington Country Club (FL). 

Jim is survived by his loving partner of 21 years, Deborah Reilly, and her family, Dennis and Nydia Reilly, and their children, Sabine and Harrison. Jim was predeceased by his wife of 30 years, Louisa D. McShea, in 1991 and is survived by their daughters, Megan McShea and Melissa Valentin, his son-in-law Vincent Valentin, and his 5 grandchildren, Caitlin Kelly, Daniel Kelly, Thomas Valentin, Celine Valentin, and Natalie Valentin. Jim is also survived by his siblings, Peter McShea and Claire Di Francesco. 

A celebration of Jim’s life will be held in Pennsylvania in the summer of 2021. Contributions in Jim’s memory may be made to La Salle University, where Jim was a generous lifelong benefactor. Please share your memories and stories of Jim with his family and friends by emailing DearJimMcShea@gmail.com.