James Ronald Shilakes, 84, of Port St. Lucie, Fla., and Edgartown, passed away peacefully on Friday, June 26, 2026, on Martha’s Vineyard.
Born July 17, 1941, in Detroit, Mich., Ron enjoyed a long and successful career with Warner Lambert/Pfizer, retiring as vice president in 2000. He played a key role in bringing numerous life-saving drugs to market, a source of great pride throughout his life.
All who knew Ron will remember his sharp wit and humor, his passion for all sports — especially the Detroit Lions and Michigan Wolverines — and his love of golf, which he enjoyed playing with family and friends. An accomplished artist, his paintings adorn the walls of their home and grace the covers of the family’s annual Christmas cards.
He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Carol H. Shilakes, of Port St. Lucie and Edgartown; his brother, David Shilakes; his son, Christopher Shilakes and wife Kirsten; his daughter, Jessica Reilly and husband Raymond; and his cherished grandchildren, Christian, Jocelyn, Keegan, Isabelle, and Hayden, who knew him as their beloved “Papa.”
The family would like to thank Hospice and Palliative Care of Martha’s Vineyard for their care and support. In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Hospice and Palliative Care of M.V., 455 State Road | PMB 244, Vineyard Haven, MA 02568.
