John B. Shevlin, Jr.

John B. Shevlin, Jr. of Wakefield, passed away peacefully at his residence surrounded by his family, on February 1st. He was 79 years old.

John was born in New London, CT on October 23, 1945, and was the son of the late John B. “Jack” Shevlin and the late Ann (Morehead) Shevlin.

John was raised in Wakefield, MA and graduated from Wakefield High School, Class of 1963. During his high school career, John excelled both academically and as an athlete, especially as quarterback for the football team. His undefeated 1962 Wakefield High football team was invited to the White House to meet President John F. Kennedy. He matriculated to Harvard, where he continued to excel academically and was a member of Harvard’s Varsity football team. 

He graduated from Harvard in 1967 and then went on to Boston College Law School, achieving his Juris Doctorate degree. Upon graduating in 1970, he became a partner in commercial and residential real estate law at the law firm of Gilman, McLaughlin and Hanrahan. He enjoyed many lasting personal and professional relationships with his clients and their families such as Chestnut Hill Realty, The Athenaeum Group and many others.

Outside of his vocational pursuits, John will be remembered for his love of family and sports and travel. He had a tremendous love of sports, always in attendance at his children’s sporting events and in later years, when life blessed him with four grandsons, he was always found on the sidelines of their football, basketball and lacrosse games cheering them on.

John’s spirit is best captured by his generosity and competitive nature. Without being asked, John went out of his way to ensure those in his life continued to succeed through his giving spirit. His competitive spirit, which began in his school years, never left him. He most enjoyed watching his passion for sports living on through his own family.

John was the husband of Marilyn (DuBois) Shevlin, with whom he shared 52 years of marriage. He was the proud father of Jennifer Lupien and her husband Peter of North Reading, and Matthew Shevlin and his wife Erica of Hingham. He was the cherished “Pop” to John Lupien, Quinn Lupien, Rhett Shevlin, and Cole Shevlin. John was the brother of William Shevlin and his wife Gail, Cynthia Shevlin, and Diane Shevlin. He is also survived by many nieces and nephews, extended family members and friends.

His Funeral Services will be private. Arrangements are in the care of the McDonald Funeral Home in Wakefield.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the: Wakefield Warrior Club, P.O. Box 442, Wakefield MA 01880, Tax ID# 04-3154480, Venmo: @Wakefield-HSFootball or to the Animal Rescue League of Boston, 10 Chandler St., Boston, MA 02116, 617-426-9170 X604.