01/17/2026
It is a somber time for the City of Quincy as the community mourns the loss of three foundational figures who dedicated their lives to public service and local progress.
The passing of Mayor Arthur Tobin and his wife, Shirley Tobin, within just 24 hours of each other, is a profound testament to a lifelong partnership.
Mr. Tobin served as the Mayor of Quincy from 1978 to 1981 and held distinguished roles as a State Representative, State Senator, and Clerk of Courts for Norfolk County.
Of all the accomplishments Mr. Tobin made in his life— none were more impactful, more important to him, than his 70-year marriage to Ms. Shirley Straughn. Together they raised seven amazing children and watched their family grow by leaps and bounds.
Mr. Tobin will forever be known for his integrity and deep roots and impact on the city he loved. Arthur and Shirley were pillars of the community whose devotion to their family and the city left an indelible mark on Quincy’s civic landscape.
The city also honors the memory of Mayor James Sheets, a leader whose influence spanned decades of growth and education.
Serving as Mayor from 1990 to 2002, Sheets is credited with overseeing significant revitalizations within the city and fostering a culture of kindness and accessibility in local government.
Mr. Sheets commitment to Quincy College ensured that the institution remained a vital resource for local students, providing a pathway to opportunity for thousands.
The combined legacies of Mayor & Mrs. Tobin and Mayor Sheets service, compassion and dedication will continue to inspire the citizens of Quincy for generations to come.