David Hill Sheehan

David Hill Sheehan, 78, a longtime resident of Harrisville, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 16, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family at the Jack Byrne Center in Lebanon. Born on September 26, 1946, in Boston, MA, David was the son of the late Mary Brigham (Hill) and Harry Lucas Sheehan. Throughout his life, he lived in many places in the U.S. and abroad, before eventually settling in Harrisville, the town he loved and called home. David graduated from Maine-Endwell Senior High School in Endwell, New York, in 1964. Following his graduation, he was drafted into the United States Army on November 30, 1965. During his years of service, David distinguished himself with honor and commitment, earning the Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, and the Expert Marksman Badge (Rifle). He was honorably discharged on October 13, 1969, having attained the rank of Specialist 5 (Promotable) [SP5 (P)]. On June 2, 1973, David married the love of his life, Carrie E. (Fortin) Sheehan, in a simple, heartfelt ceremony surrounded by family and friends at the Harrisville Community Church. They shared 43 wonderful years before Carrie's passing on February 16, 2017. While raising their young children and working full-time, David earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Nathaniel Hawthorne College in 1978—a testament to his unwavering dedication to his education, career, and family. He spent his early years working at Homestead Woolen Mills in Swanzey before beginning his career at New England Business Service (NEBS) in Peterborough, where he made lifelong friendships and took pride in his work. After retirement in 2013, he and Carrie bought themselves a convertible Mustang to enjoy together. He was affectionately known to his family as “Papa,” and to friends, simply “Dave.” He had a passion for softball, playing for many years with B&B Vacs and J&L Autobody, traveling to weekend tournaments with his family in tow. Though his glove never made it to the Hall of Fame, it should have. He was the best first baseman around and occasionally launched a home run or two. The morning of his passing, he asked about the score of the Dodgers game from the night before—his beloved Brooklyn Dodgers (now the L.A. Dodgers) always on his mind. David also enjoyed watching and playing golf, hosting epic horseshoe tournaments at the family home, completing crossword puzzles, and was a (mostly) undefeated Words with Friends competitor. On warm summer days, you could find him on the deck, newspaper in hand, and a cold can of Coors Banquet at his fingertips. He was a proud member of the American Legion, the William Marconi Italian Club, and the Fraternal Order of Eagles. A natural people person, David made friends wherever he went. His sense of humor was second to none, his laughter was contagious, and his guidance was trusted by all who sought it. He approached life with cautious optimism, always offering a calm and thoughtful perspective. David is survived by his children: Kimberlie Buckley and husband, Tim, of North Carolina; Kristin Sheehan of Swanzey; Albert Sheehan and wife, Shelley, of Hillsborough; Adrienne Simpson of Marlborough; Trinity Underwood and her love, Bruce, of Milford; Toby Sheehan. He is also survived by many grandchildren, especially cherishing his special bonds with Natalia, Kameron, Noah, and Quinn; a dozen great-grandchildren; and numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends. He was predeceased by his parents, his beloved wife Carrie, and his brother, Patrick L. Sheehan, who passed away on March 29, 2025. A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at the Cheshire Family Funeral Chapel, 44 Maple Ave., Keene, NH 03431. Burial will immediately follow in the family lot at Willard Hill Cemetery, Roxbury Road, Harrisville, NH 03450. Friends and family are invited to dress comfortably and respectfully, with a touch of blue if desired. Honoring David’s wishes, there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of David H. Sheehan to: Jack Byrne Center for Palliative & Hospice Care, 154 Hitchcock Loop Road, Lebanon, NH 03756. All services are under the care of Cheshire Family Funeral Home, Chapel, and Crematories. www.cheshirefamilyfh.com

Tributes

David Hill Sheehan

September 26, 1946 - April 16, 2025