Published January 4, 2019
MELROSE — Barbara M. (LaFave) “Betty” Shea, 94, a longtime resident of Melrose, passed away peacefully at Melrose Healthcare on Tuesday, December 18, 2018.
Born on October 2, 1924, she was one of two children of the late Frederick R. LaFave and Bertha M. (Von Schoppe) LaFave.
She worked as an administrative secretary at Melrose-Wakefield Hospital for over 30 years, retiring in 1998. Barbara was also a longtime member of the Melrose Emblem Club #89.
Betty was a devoted parishioner of St. Mary’s Church in Melrose since 1953.
Betty was the beloved wife of the late Arthur F. Shea with whom she shared 64 years of marriage. Devoted mother of Frederick A. Shea of Melrose, Paul D. Shea of Ore., and the late Daniel F. Shea. Dear sister of the late Frederick “Bud” LaFave. Also survived by her sister-in-law Mary Margaret “Peggy” LaFave of Medford, and several nieces and nephews.
Relatives and friends were invited to gather in honor of Betty’s life for visiting hours at the Robinson Funeral Home, 809 Main St., Melrose on Friday, Dec. 21 before leaving in procession to St. Mary’s Church, Herbert St., Melrose for her funeral Mass. Interment in Wyoming Cemetery, Melrose. For directions, or online tribute visit RobinsonFuneralHome.com
