Dear Marygrove Community:
It is with deep sympathy that I inform you of the death of John E. Shay, Ph.D., the sixth President of Marygrove College. Dr. Shay passed away peacefully on Saturday afternoon, surrounded by his loving family. He served us well throughout some very difficult years for the College, from 1980 to 1997. “Jack” was a steadfast leader, known for his disarming humor and quick wit, which he used to skillfully bridge gaps in a way that only he could. He enjoyed the challenge of a good argument, and is credited with working diligently alongside the Board of Trustees to ensure that Marygrove would continue to independently serve the people of Detroit, of all races and creeds, as a Catholic institution of higher learning guided by spiritual and human values.
To acknowledge his 17 years of exemplary service and loyalty to our beloved institution, I encourage you attend his funeral mass here at Sacred Heart Chapel on Thursday morning. We wish his wonderful wife, Patricia and their three children Maria, David and John, and their families, all of our love and prayers in this difficult time.
You may pay your respects to Dr. Shay and his family at Desmond Funeral Home at 32515 Woodward Avenue in Royal Oak:
Wednesday, May 15
2:00-8:00 p.m. Visitation
7:00 p.m. Scripture Service
Thursday, May 16
Sacred Heart Chapel, Marygrove College
9:30 a.m. Visitation
10:00 a.m. Funeral MassSincerely,
David Fike
