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Thomas Settler Shields, affectionately known as “Tom” or “Daddy” or “Pastor Shields”, was born in Tallahassee, Florida on July 21, 1930. He passed away on July 4, 2023, a few days shy of his 93rd birthday. He was predeceased by his parents, Roy and Onzell Shields; his brothers, Richard and Joseph Shields and a grandson, Zachary M. Watrous. Survivors include his daughters, Gwendolyn E. Watrous of Connecticut and Melody J. Shields of Tallahassee, Florida; a grandson, Joshua Watrous, his wife Mandi and their children, Naomi and Silas and his great grandson, Onyx Watrous; his brothers, Sylvester, Estral, Charles and Don Shields; sisters-in-law, Jean, Linda, Ruth, and Annette as well as several nieces and nephews whom he deeply loved. Last but not least, he leaves behind the love of his life and soulmate, Jonnie Stoutamire. Tom graduated from Leon County High School before moving to Miami, Florida. He then graduated from Emanuel Bible Junior College in Franklin Springs, Georgia and soon thereafter, Southeastern Bible School in Lakeland, Florida. He graduated in 1953 and received his license to preach by the Florida District Council. He served as pastor for several churches and was a personal representative for Oral Roberts University. He loved teaching Bible classes and his most recent service was at Hermitage Retirement Home where he met his beloved Jonnie. During his 92 years on earth, Tom has served as a pastor, teacher, coordinator, fundraiser, builder/developer and travel agent organizing groups to the Holy Land and all over the world. Tom established “The Church That Space Built” at Cape Canaveral, Fl. Palm Chapel was the first charismatic church in the area where Tom ministered to many employees from the Space Center. He was also an active member of the Full Gospel Businessmen’s Fellowship and attended World Congress on Evangelism in Berlin, Germany. An effective fundraiser, Pastor Shields has helped churches, colleges and universities (including Oral Robert’s University) to meet and exceed substantial financial goals. By generating income through foundation grants and estate planning he assisted in their growth and success. Tom’s charisma, compassion, salesmanship, high energy and love for the Lord enabled him to achieve most any career goal he set his mind to. As a father, “Daddy” taught his daughters the importance of prayer, tithing, and serving and loving the Lord. Through example, he taught kindness to others, compassion, gardening, remodeling homes, and the importance of education. Tom's suffering on this earth is over and he is with his Lord and Savior. Well done, good and faithful servant. The family will be receiving guests for a visitation at The Woodville Primitive Baptist Church (White Church, 1900 Lawhon Rd Tallahassee FL 32305) on Monday, July 10, 2023 from 10:30 – 11:30 am with a memorial service to follow at 11:30 am. The family will again be receiving guests for a reception following the service, details will be announced. Breanna Green of Bevis Funeral Home (850-385-2193 or www.bevisfh.com) is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Tributes

Thomas Settler Shields

July 21, 1930 - July 4, 2023