Shields Wilson
Shields Wilson died peacefully at home on Thursday, September 11, 2014, with family at his side.
He was born on Nov. 14, 1920, in Boonshill, Tn., graduated from The Webb School, and earned his B.A. and law degrees from Vanderbilt University. Prior to law school, Shields enlisted in the Navy, attending Officers’ Candidate School at Northwestern University. On June 6, 1944, he commanded 8 LCVP’s, taking troops into the beaches of Normandy in the first wave of the D-Day Invasion. Shields' keen mind and steady demeanor served him well, as he and the others assigned to his LST were awarded a medal for crossing the English Channel more times than any other Navy ship. An interview about Shields' war experiences is on file at the Library of Congress in Washington, DC.
Shields married Frances Louise Seay in 1946. They celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary on Aug. 18, 2014. Following law school, Shields was director of the Corporate Tax Division of the Tennessee Department of Revenue before joining the Witt Gaither Law Firm, with which he was a partner for many years. He later served as general counsel for American National Bank. Shields practiced law, at least on a part-time basis, until he was 91.
Throughout the years Shields was actively involved in several organizations, including Goodwill Industries, Kiwanis Club, Chattanooga Quarterback Club and Chattanooga Vanderbilt Alumni Association, serving as president or board member. He also enjoyed a long relationship with the Eastside Utility District. Shields was always involved in his church and was an Elder at Rivermont Presbyterian.
He was a great lover of sports, and rarely missed a game or match in which his children played. He loved gardening and growing roses and at one time had over 200 bushes. He found great peace and joy being in his garden and feeding the hundreds of birds who knew his yard was a bird haven.
"Pappy" took great delight in his grandchildren and never tired of hearing about their lives. He was a Southern gentleman, and was a role model of unselfishness, generosity and love. He was a great listener and always enjoyed the company of family and friends. He was a man of great humility and patience and quick to forgive. He lived a life of faith by example, exemplifying Micah 6: 8: "He hath shown thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God.”
Shields' wife, Frances, preceded him in death on Aug. 25, 2014.
Surviving are his children: John Shields Wilson and his wife; Susan, Elenora Wilson Asbury and her husband, Bill; Albert Wright Wilson II; Thayer Wilson McGahee and her husband, Rusty; his sister, Alberta Grace; grandchildren: John Shields and Hunter Wilson, Brooke Asbury, Delaney and Paige Asbury, Mary Frances McGahee, Kelly McGahee and Rebecca McGahee; and 15 nieces and nephews.
The Wilson family wishes to thank Hospice of Chattanooga for its expert and compassionate support. Shields' last years were brightened by the loving companionship and care given him by his son, Albert.
A private military burial will be held, followed by a memorial service at Rivermont Presbyterian Church on Saturday, Sept. 20, at 3 p.m. with Reverend Clay Thomas officiating. Afterward there will be a reception to celebrate Shields' life.
Memorials may be made to Rivermont Presbyterian Church, 3319 Hixson Pike, Chattanooga, Tn. 37415 or Hospice of Chattanooga., 4411 Oakwood Drive, Chattanooga, Tn. 37416.
Visit www.lanefh.com to share condolences.
Arrangements are by Lane Funeral Home, Ashland Terrace, 877-3524.