Franklin Harrison Shields

Franklin “Frank” Harrison Shields, 83, of Church Road, Va., passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by loving family and friends on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He was born in Petersburg, Va. and raised in Lunenburg County, Va. Frank is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Venida Ellen Mason Shields. He also leaves behind his son, Timothy Shields (Cheryl) of Thunder Bay, Canada; his two daughters, Tracy Jones (Gene) of Church Road, Va., and Tamara Cortez (Hernan) of Midlothian, Va. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren: Kristen King (Eric), Jesse McKee (Morgan), Dustin Jones, Matthew Shields and Sabrina, Mary, and Travis Cortez. He was also blessed with four great-grandchildren, Caden Thomas and Kolton, Raleigh, and Ellie King. He is also survived by three sisters; Janet Gregory of Blackstone, Va., Jean Harris of Glen Allen, Va., and Debra Crowe of Red Lion, Pa.; a special cousin, Minnie Wilkerson of Victoria, Va., brother-in-law Kenny Martin of Stuarts Draft, Va. and many loving nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Herbert Harrison Shields and Retha Havens Shields of Kenbridge, Va., his sister, Kay Martin of Stuarts Draft, Va. and his infant brother, Dean Shields. Frank retired as a superintendent for Gulf Seaboard Construction in Ashland, Va., a job he truly loved. His strong work ethic began early in life, delivering newspapers as a young boy and later working in tobacco and on a dairy farm. A man of faith, Frank was a dedicated member of Poole Christian Church, where he served as both a deacon and trustee for many years. Everyone who knew him loved his easygoing personality. He went out of his way to help anyone he could and will be remembered for his warmth and kindness. Frank’s legacy lives on through his family, who will cherish his memory always.

A memorial service will be announced at a later date. Arrangements by the Joseph McMillian Funeral Home, 1826 Cox Rd., Blackstone, Va. 23824.  www.mcmillianfuneralhome.com

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