Robert Paul Shields' Obituary
Robert Paul Shields (Bobby), formerly of Clemmons, NC, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, February 15, 2024.
Beloved son of JoAnn Popek Shields of Clemmons, NC and Robert William Shields of Huntersville, NC, Bobby was born on March 16, 1983 in Fairborn, OH and spent his childhood as the oldest of five children moving frequently for multiple assignments during his father’s career in the US Air Force. The family moved to NC in 1997 where he attended West Forsyth High School and graduated with the Class of 2001.
With both parents being veterans of military service, Bobby followed in their footsteps and enlisted in the US Army. He was proud to serve his country from 2006-2012 where he completed two tours in Iraq (2007-08, 2009-10). He received many awards during his enlistment for his leadership and professionalism including the Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal (3rd award), Meritorious Unit Commendation (2nd award), the Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal w/ Campaign Star (3rd award), along with several other ribbons awarded for his service.
Those who knew Bobby would tell you how his smile and laughter would light up a room. Always on standby with a joke or a story, he also loved to sing and spent many nights entertaining his friends and family with his talents.
Bobby was a fitness enthusiast who loved being in the gym. He found solace by the ocean, where he often went for inspiration and to fish and write poetry. He discovered his passion for taking care of others in need later in life and had been working towards his goal of becoming a nurse.
In addition to his parents, Bobby is survived by two daughters, Emily Shields of Huntersville and Madelyn Hagen of Lorton, VA; three brothers, William Shields of Oakland, CA; John Shields (Erin) of Lewisville, NC; and brother Mark Shields (Sara) and sister Kathryn Shields of Huntersville; one niece, and four nephews.
Funeral services will be held from 11am-12pm on Wednesday, February 21st at James Funeral Home in Huntersville, NC. A private burial will take place at the VA National Cemetery in Salisbury, NC on Monday, February 26th.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made in his memory to Operation Homefront, a Veteran’s charity dedicated to helping military families in need.
James Funeral Home is assisting the family, online condolences may be made at www.jamesfuneralhomelkn.com.
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