Philip Joseph Shea

Philip Joseph Shea, age 80, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2019, at his home in Dallas after a battle with cancer.

Phil, as he was known by friends, family and associates, was born in Oakland, California, on March 15, 1939. He graduated from Oakland High School in 1957 and received a Bachelor’s degree from San Francisco State University. He loved and spent his entire career in the title insurance business, starting out in the mailroom while in high school. His most recent position was Executive Vice President at Fidelity National Title, where he worked for 22 years and was inducted into the Hall of Fame. He also received the Life Member Award from the Dallas Chamber of Commerce in 1984.

Phil was an avid reader and thoroughly enjoyed golf and gardening, and also spent much of his early years running marathons, including the New York City Marathon, Boston Marathon and Dallas White Rock Marathon. In 1979 he moved to Dallas, where he would meet the love of his life Paula Lewis, a fellow in the title insurance business. They married on November 16, 1985. 

Phil had an infectiously positive attitude and was a reliable source of joy to those around him, often livening up a room with his humor and fun stories. He was extremely generous and touched countless lives through his work and faith-based activities. He particularly cherished being a part of his men’s Bible study group and Sunday school class at Park Cities Presbyterian Church. 

Phil is survived by his wife Paula, his son Philip, his daughter Peyton and her husband Patrick, and his daughter Jennifer. He is preceded in death by his father Daniel, his mother Alice and his daughter Coleen.

A memorial service celebrating Phil’s life will be held on Friday, November 8 at 2:00 p.m. at Park Cities Presbyterian Church, 4124 Oak Lawn, Dallas, TX 75219.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Park Cities Presbyterian Church or the American Cancer Society.

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