Jerry Shea

Gerald “Jerry” Shea, 75, of Crystal Lake, IL, passed away peacefully on August 11, 2025, surrounded by his wife and daughter. Born on September 13, 1949, in Galesburg, IL, to James and Jolene Shea. He was a graduate of Galesburg High School in 1967. Jerry earned both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in English Education from Western Illinois University. After college he moved to Crystal Lake, IL and began his teaching career in 1975 as a middle school English teacher. Jerry spent the majority of his career at Lundahl Middle School where he retired from teaching in 2010. He inspired generations of students as a beloved and respected educator in his community. He was known for his positivity, kindness, and unwavering dedication to his students.

Outside the classroom, Jerry was a talented professional photographer. He was a wedding and lifestyle photographer for many years as well as sharing his expertise through classes at McHenry County College. His creative spirit extended to writing, and he was proud to have seven published books of poetry archived in the Library of Congress. Jerry admired the work of poet Carl Sandburg. He taught his work in the classroom and completed many projects regarding Sandburg’s work and life.

In addition to his work in education and photography, Jerry was a successful real estate agent for 25 years with Berkshire Hathaway. Above all the accomplishments in his professional life, his greatest ones were his children. Jerry was a dedicated father and family man above all else.

In 1988, Jerry’s life changed forever when he met his beloved wife, Carolyn, during a chance encounter at the Hob Nobs in Crystal Lake. The two shared a deep bond, marrying on June 21, 2003, and filling their years together with love, laughter, and travel. Jerry especially enjoyed their trips to Cancun, Mexico, and to the “Crows Nest” in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan.

A man of boundless energy, Jerry was an avid jogger, cyclist, and gardener. For many years, during the summer months, he managed the swimming pool at Turnberry County Club. Where he greeted everyone with his signature warmth and optimism.

Jerry will be remembered for his joyful outlook, his passion for teaching and art, and his ability to make everyone he met feel valued. His legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched through his words, images, and kindness. Jerry, who could see the silver lining in anything, told his friends and loved ones: “life is beautiful.”

In addition to his beloved wife, Jerry will be deeply missed by his daughter, Brynn (Loreto) Lo Bosco; step-daughter, Mikell (Ben Duval) Coleman; grandchildren, Connor, Kennedy, Lillian, Landon, Nino, Luca and Gustav; daughter-in-law, Kelly Shea; sisters, Kathy Shea and Joan Yelm; and by many extended family and friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Colin Shea in 2023.

Memorial visitation will be Sunday, August 17, 2025 from 1 PM until the celebration of life at 5:30 PM at Davenport Family Funeral Home and Crematory, 419 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rte. 176), Crystal Lake, IL 60014. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Parkinson’s Foundation, www.parkinson.org/