Obituaries

Lonnie Walter Shealy was born on January 1, 1961, to the late Reverend David Shealy and the late Bertha (Hawkins) Shealy in New Haven, CT. Lonnie peacefully passed away on October 27, 2023, at home, with his devoted wife, Robin Shealy, by his side.

Lonnie received his formal education in the New Haven Public School System and graduated from James Hillhouse High School in 1979. Upon graduating, Lonnie enlisted in the US Army and National Guard, where he had the opportunity to travel the world and served in the Gulf War. He dedicated 22 years of his life to military service. After his honorable service, he joined the New Haven public school system. Over the course of more than 20 years, Lonnie ensured the safety of students and faculty in various schools, including James Hillhouse High School, Wilbur Cross High School, Hyde Leadership, High School in The Community, Sheridan, Troop, Roberto Clemente, and Katherine Brennan.

Lonnie was deeply devoted to God, his daughter, wife, family, and his work family. He proudly referred to himself as “A Soldier for Jesus.” Active in his church home, New Life Worship Center, under the leadership of Apostle David McClure and Pastor Ruthie McClure, Lonnie later became a deacon. He cherished his daughter and made it his mission to walk her down the aisle on her wedding day. Additionally, he found joy in spending time with his wife, traveling, exploring new places, and enjoying cruises. Lonnie was very family-oriented, often found manning the grill at family cookouts. He loved his job and built meaningful friendships with fellow coworkers, faculty, students, and parents.

Lonnie was a loving husband, father, grandfather, and brother. He will be lovingly remembered by his wife, Robin Shealy, his daughter, Sharnika (Tyron) Knight, and his grandson, Dashawn Shealy. He is also survived by five sisters: Linda Richardson, Victoria (Lonnie) Adams, Leona Nixon, Trina Shealy, and Lena (Clarence) Cummings. Additionally, he is survived by six brothers: Daryl Shealy, Edward Shealy, Robert (Melissa) Strickland, Arthur Shealy, Leonard (Latrice) Nixon, and Andre Rogers. Lonnie is also survived by special cousins Sonja Byres and Charles Washington along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends. He was loved by many and will be greatly missed.

Lonnie is predeceased by his niece Kimberly Richardson and sister in-law Colleen Shealy.

Funeral services for Lonnie will be held on Thursday, November 9, 2023, at Colonial Funeral Home located at 86 Circular Avenue, Hamden, CT 06514. The viewing will take place from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., and the service will follow from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Interment will then take place at the State Veterans Cemetery. Condolences may be expressed at www.colonialfunerals.com.