Paul "PJ" Shevlin Jr.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Paul Joseph "PJ" Shevlin, Jr., who died at home on January 16, 2025, at the age of 60. PJ was born on June 12, 1964 to his loving parents, Peggie and Paul Shevlin.

In addition to his parents, PJ is survived by his three children, Maggie, Patrick (Michelle), and Jack Shevlin, who were the absolute joy of his life. He is also deeply mourned by his siblings: Christine Rizzo, Michael, Dan (Linda), Kathleen (Tom) Boyle, Matthew, and Ryan (Ana) and many nieces, grandnieces and nephews. He leaves behind his former wife and trusted friend, Gail Shevlin, and his longtime love, Chrissy Newell, who provided him with unwavering support for many years. PJ is also survived by his beloved dog, CoCo.

PJ served in the United States Navy and graduated from Mansfield University. In his youth, PJ excelled at baseball and later took great pride in coaching his sons at Newtown-Edgmont Little League. He also had a deep love of music, especially The Grateful Dead. He shared that passion with his children, often creating and enjoying music together. PJ was a passionate Philadelphia sports fan, particularly of the Eagles and Phillies and he enjoyed summers in Strathmere at the Jersey Shore with his children.

Professionally, PJ had a successful career in the insurance business, where he worked alongside his father and brothers, Dan and Michael. As general agent of Key Advisors Group, he not only excelled in his own career but also recruited and mentored many individuals, guiding them into successful careers of their own. His unmatched leadership and guidance had a lasting impact on those fortunate enough to work with him.

PJ was also deeply involved in the recovery community and was an early leader of the Shevlin Family Foundation, a position that allowed him to make a lasting and positive impact on others.

PJ had a heart of gold, and anyone who knew him, whether from his childhood or adult life, could attest to the charisma, kindness, humor, and loyalty that defined him. He always sought to find the positive in every situation and worked hard to block out the negative. His approach to life was infectious, and he had a way of making those around him feel special and cared for.

Despite these many strengths, PJ struggled with the disease of addiction—a demon he battled for much of his life. He fought this disease with everything he had, driven by his deep love for his children and family and his passion for life. His courage in this fight was matched by his dedication to helping others struggling with their own challenges, offering support and guidance to so many along the way. We take comfort in knowing that PJ is surrounded by light, free from that struggle. We would have given anything for him to experience that freedom in this lifetime. Our grief over losing him is infinite. And now so is he.

A service will be held to honor PJ’s life, on Wednesday January 22, 2025 at 1:30 pm at St. Pius X Church, 220 Lawrence Road, Broomall, PA 19008,  as well as, a viewing from 12 to 1 pm at The Donohue Funeral Home, 8401 W Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082. There will also be a viewing Tuesday January 21, 2025 from 6 to 8 pm at 8401 W Chester Pike, Upper Darby, PA 19082.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to The Shevlin Family Foundation, Shevlinfamilyfoundation.org located at 715 E. 20th Street, Chester, PA 19013.