Janet M. (Lewis) Shea

After facing a number of health challenges, Janet M. (Lewis) Shea, 66, died peacefully Thursday morning, August 27th, surrounded by the love and comfort of her family.

She was born in Winchendon on November 19, 1959, daughter of the late Edward D. and Marion I. Lewis (Higgins). She resided in Winchendon most of her life.

Janet spent most of her working career as a travel agent and eventually owned her own travel agency, Ideal Travel. She also spent time working as a paralegal and notary public. She was a true adventurer who loved to explore the world. Ogunquit, Maine, held a very special place in her heart.

There was nothing Janet loved more than filling the bellies of the people and animals she cared for. She was an avid baker, and making goodies for her family, friends, and neighbors brought her pure joy. She spoiled her pets and made sure the backyard wildlife was never forgotten. Her many hobbies included experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen, berry and fruit picking, canning vegetables, quilting, ceramics, puzzles, and “junkin’” at yard sales for treasures.

Above all, Janet cherished her family, especially her children and grandchildren. She was immensely proud of each of them and always looked forward to the time she could spend with them.

She leaves her beloved husband, Robert D. Shea; her children, Andrea L. Pancholi and her husband Rajesh, and their children Gemma and Jude; Nathan E. Dulfon and his wife Jennifer, and their daughter Sage; Cassie M. Brown and her husband Samuel, and their children Jamie, Bentley, Oliver, and Rylee; Lily A. LeBlanc and her partner Andrew Early, and their daughter Ellie; and stepdaughter Marcy Shea-Tillinghast and her husband Francis, and their children Piper, Parker, and Harper. She was preceded in death by her brother, Edward D. Lewis Jr.

Janet will be remembered for her generous heart, her nurturing spirit, her strong will, and her devotion to the people she loved. She leaves behind a lifetime of memories that will continue to bring smiles and comfort to those who knew her.

There will be no formal services. A celebration of Janet’s life will be held at a later date, where family and friends will have an opportunity to come together and remember the wonderful woman she was.