Steven “Todd” Shay, 56, of Rowlesburg, passed away July 11, 2022, at J.W. Ruby Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. The son of the late father, Francis William Shay and surviving mother, Beverly Shay Wolfe Nice.
Todd was born Dec. 4, 1965, in Kingwood, raised in Rowlesburg, where he found the love of hunting and fishing with his father and brothers on Lantz Ridge. After graduating from High School, Todd enlisted in the United States Army, becoming a paratrooper in the 82nd Airborne division. Todd served honorably in the Army from 1985-2011 retiring as a combat veteran. Todd completed three combat tours during his service: 2001-2002, 2004-2005 and 2009-2010. While serving in the Army, Todd graduated from Central Carolina Community College with an electrical engineering technology degree. Todd worked at West Virginia University Personal Rapid Transit (PRT) for over 25 years.
Todd was a proud combat veteran and was devoted to his family. His true passion was hunting and fishing with his family and friends. Todd loved telling stories with his brothers, sons and nephew about all the adventures they had together. Once he became a grandfather, his grandchildren were his world. Todd enjoyed spending time with them, telling stories about their daddy’s, and telling anyone who would or would not listen how proud of a father and grandfather he was. Todd spent his spare time riding his Harley and chasing younger women. Todd enjoyed riding his Harley to visit veteran memorials and military monuments across the county.
Todd is survived by his loving sons and spouses, Steven “Alex” Shay (Kayla), of Rowlesburg, and William Shay (Morgan), of Cameron, N.C., four grandchildren, Alexander “Cotton” Shay, Adalida Shay, Carly Shay and Remi Shay; brothers, Tom Shay (Michele) Tim Shay (Mary), all of Rowlesburg, and claimed little brother, Francis “F.D.” Shay (Jenell), of Bruceton Mills; sister, Julie Shay Chapman (Tim), of Maiden, N.C.; mother, Beverly Nice (Rex), of Rowlesburg; and several nieces, nephews, great-nephews and great-nieces.
Todd was preceded in death by his father, Francis Shay.
Todd will forever be remembered by his loved ones as a devoted father, grandfather, brother, son uncle, great-uncle and friend; with a smile that would light up a room and energy that was full of life, he was an adventurous storyteller and jokester. Todd was an American warrior that loved and fought for his country. He will forever be loved and deeply missed.
Family will receive friends at Burke Funeral Home in Rowlesburg, from 4-8 p.m. on Saturday July 16, and from noon-8 p.m. on Sunday July 17. Interment will be at the convenience of the family.
Condolences:
www.kingwoodfuneralhomewv.com
