Michael J. O'Shea

Michael J. O’Shea, 69, retired college English professor and James Joyce scholar, died Sunday, Oct. 6, 2024 after a long illness following a stroke. He had degrees from Emory University and the University of Delaware. He taught at Drexel University, Fayetteville State University and Newberry College. A native of Atlanta, he was a graduate of St. Pius X Catholic High School. A funeral Mass will be celebrated 11 a.m. Friday, Oct. 25 at Our Lady of the Assumption Church, 1350 Hearst Dr. NE, Brookhaven, GA 30319. Instead of flowers, the family suggests a donation to Emory University, Our Lady of the Assumption Church or a favorite cat charity. Michael was the son of Arthur K. O'Shea and Lois McIntosh O'Shea. He is survived by three sisters, Theresa O'Shea, Helen Tucker (Bill) and Mary O'Shea; a brother, Brian O'Shea (Bev); two nieces, two nephews and two great-nieces. He was predeceased by his parents and three brothers, John, Kevin and Tim. Michael received a Bachelor of Arts in English and Music from Emory, where he also managed the Student Center. He received his MA and PhD in James Joyce studies from the University of Delaware. He taught and served as assistant department head at Drexel University. At Newberry College, he chaired the English Department, and edited the distinguished international journal, "Studies in Short Fiction." He also played a key role in the nationally honored restoration of the city's 1882 Opera House. Michael also taught at Fayetteville State University. Michael was a leading international Joyce scholar, serving on the Board of the International James Joyce Society, and speaking and chairing panels at international conferences. He also served as a visiting scholar in Joyce Studies on several campuses. He was cited for teaching excellence everywhere he taught. Though a distinguished scholar, he was relatable to students and non-students for his humor and wit. As a professor, he used his love for classic movies to teach college classes, and an Elder Hostel course, in film appreciation. And he taught writing. His interests also involved comedy, especially the Marx Brothers and Monty Python. And cats. With his former wife, Catherine, he was co-ghostwriter for his cats Colleen and McIntosh, producing the slim but funny volume, "The 50 Secrets of Highly Successful Cats: Or How to Succeed with Humans (Without Really Trying)." He was active in amateur and community theater, beginning in high school and continuing in every community that he called home.

Michael J. O'Shea

June 13, 1955 - October 6, 2024