Dr. Jerry A. Shields was a world-renowned American ophthalmologist and ocular oncologist who served as Director Emeritus of the Ocular Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital in Philadelphia. Born on June 9, 1937 in Pride Station, Union County, Kentucky, he was the youngest of eight children and attended Sturgis High School before earning his bachelor's degree from Murray State University in 1960 where he excelled academically and athletically. After completing medical school at the University of Michigan in 1964, he served his country as a battalion surgeon in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War, followed by service in the United States Navy in Europe. Upon returning to civilian life, he completed his ophthalmology residency at Wills Eye Hospital in 1970, establishing the foundation for his pioneering career in eye cancer treatment.
Dr. Shields fundamentally transformed the field of ocular oncology through groundbreaking innovations in diagnosis and globe-sparing treatments for intraocular tumors. In 1974, he founded the Ocular Oncology Service at Wills Eye Hospital, establishing one of the first dedicated eye cancer centers in the world, where he pioneered the development and popularization of plaque radiotherapy for ocular melanoma, which saved countless patients' eyes from unnecessary removal. His systematic research advanced early tumor detection methods using ultrasonography, fluorescein angiography, and radioactive phosphorus uptake, establishing evidence-based protocols that became the global standard of care. Over his distinguished career, he authored more than 2,000 scientific articles, 700 textbook chapters, and 13 complete textbooks, creating an unparalleled body of knowledge that defined ocular oncology as a distinct subspecialty within ophthalmology.
Through his leadership and mentorship, Dr. Shields trained approximately 300 fellows from around the globe, building the world's largest center for ocular cancers and tumors in partnership with his wife, Dr. Carol Lally Shields, and establishing Wills Eye Hospital as the premier international referral center for eye cancer patients. His profound influence extended through his presidency of the International Society of Ocular Oncology and his receipt of the American Academy of Ophthalmology's highest honor, the 2014 Laureate Award, recognizing his lifetime contributions to the field. The Jerry A. Shields, MD Eye Cancer Fund was established in his memory following his passing on June 22, 2025, ensuring his legacy of innovation and compassionate care continues to advance eye cancer research and treatment. His comprehensive approach to patient care, documented outcomes, and systematic refinement of techniques have created an enduring foundation for future generations of ocular oncologists worldwide.
