Danville, Virginia – The Danville community is grieving the loss of Stuart Craig Shields, a beloved pharmacist, who passed away on August 14, 2024, at the age of 34 due to complications related to a seizure disorder. Stuart, born on May 10, 1990, was the cherished son of Frank M. Shields and Teresa Moore Shields.
Stuart’s passing has left a profound impact on his family and friends. He is survived by his sister, Chelsea Burns, her husband Robert, their children Francesca and Sebastian, his godparents Lisa Shields and Craig Howie, and his uncle Barry Shields. His close bond with his late "Uncle Tom" Shields, with whom he shared a love of Hokie athletics, was well known.
A man of many talents and accomplishments, Stuart achieved the rank of Eagle Scout in 2005 and graduated with honors from George Washington High School in 2008. His academic journey continued at William & Mary, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in just two years, followed by a PharmD from Wingate University in 2016. Throughout his career, Stuart worked as a pharmacist at K-Mart, Walgreens, Harris Teeter, and most recently, Kroger in Rocky Mount, Virginia.
Stuart was known for his adventurous spirit, traveling to various countries, including Germany, Colombia, Jamaica, and India. He was admired for his kindness, sensitivity, and ability to form deep connections with those around him. His love for his family was paramount, particularly his close relationship with his sister Chelsea and his role as a playful uncle to Francesca and Sebastian.
His life was guided by a strong sense of purpose and faith, which he expressed through his involvement with the First Pentecostal Holiness Church. Stuart’s commitment to making a positive impact on others was reflected in his Eagle Scout Project, where he wrote, "My goal is to improve the lives of all children, including orphans… to leave a lasting impression on humankind."
The Danville community is invited to pay their respects during a visitation on Monday, August 19, from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at Norris Funeral Home Mount Hermon Chapel. A Celebration of Life Service will be held on Tuesday, August 20, at 11:00 a.m. at the First Pentecostal Holiness Church, with Pastor Myron Bruce officiating. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Stuart’s honor to the First Pentecostal Holiness Church Building Fund.
Stuart Craig Shields will be remembered for his adventurous spirit, kindness, and unwavering faith, leaving a lasting legacy in the hearts of all who knew him.