In Memoriam: John J. Shea, Jr., 1938 – 2023

John J. Shea Jr. "Jack" long time resident of Wilbraham, MA, died March 30th at the age of eighty-four. Jack was known throughout the rental industry for pioneering the use of computerization in managing rental stores. With a career in the rental industry spanning more than 45 years, Jack helped transform the industry through computerization. Jack was widely known as an innovator in the field of rental software. As a CPA, he started in the rental industry as an executive at Taylor Rental in 1973, pioneering the use of computerization in managing rental stores. After leaving Taylor, he founded Solutions by Computer in 1982. Over the next three and a half decades Jack carried out his vision of bringing technology to rental businesses of all sizes. After retiring from the business in 2018, Jack was recognized for his accomplishments by being inducted into the American Rental Association's Hall of Fame in 2021. 

Born and raised in Woburn in 1938, Jack was the son of the late John and Jeanette (Blanchard) Shea. He was a graduate of Woburn High School, Class of 1956. Jack received his Bachelor's Degree in accounting from Bentley College. In 1960 he married his sweetheart Ann, and together over the next fifty years, brought three children into the world to whom they were devoted. Every year since he was a child, the family spent time during the summer at Long Beach in Gloucester, a tradition the family continues today.

Jack secured his pilot's license early on in life and often would take the family on adventures throughout New England, often for a ride around the Berkshires. Jack and Ann were great travelers. They enjoyed travelling all over the world. Australia, to the Mediterranean, Ireland to Hawaii, and Italy, by ship, plane, or train, their curiosity was always piqued! Jack was a 55-year Life member of the Woburn Lodge of Elks. He was also a member of Financial Executives International. 

Jack was predeceased by his beloved wife Ann, dear son Peter, daughter-in-law Julie Shea, and sister Ann Farrell. John was the devoted father of Lisa Barnes (husband Paul of Wareham) and John "Jack" Shea (wife Laura of Wilbraham). Jack is also survived by daughter-in-law Donna Johnson (husband Kurt of Milford) and loving companion Patricia "Pat" Kane of Woburn. Jack was the adored grandfather of David Garreffa of Monson, John Shea of Dorchester, Brian Shea of Somerville, and Jenna Rawlings of Somerville. 

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made in Jack's memory to the BSU Foundation, Peter J. Shea '02 Memorial Scholarship Fund. Bridgewater State University Foundation, P.O. Box 42, Bridgewater, MA 02324.