Shelia Stevens passed away peacefully surrounded by her family on Sunday, July 20, 2025 at St. Joseph’s Hospital after a brief illness. She was 82 years old. Shelia was born in Ogdensburg, New York. She moved to Syracuse and lived her entire life as a proud north sider. Shelia worked for the IRS in her younger years and spent some time as an administrative assistant to the president of OCC. She found her true calling as a claims specialist for Hartford Insurance focusing on workers’ compensation. She was well respected for her vast knowledge and served as a mentor to her colleagues.

Shelia was predeceased by her father, Fred Gladle, her mother Mamie Gladle, her sisters Virginia Tiernan, Winifred LaCombe, Rosanna Wright, and her brother Fred Gladle.  Family was everything to Shelia. She took her parents into her home and cared for them in their elder years. Her two daughters were her pride and joy, and they felt that in the love and support she always gave them. Shelia was a strong person and her belief in faith, hope and love guided her throughout her life. She always knew things would work out for the best. She was kind, generous and always there for anyone in need.  Her quiet voice of reason provided comfort to others so many times.

Gardening was a passion of Shelia’s from a very young age. She was a Thornden Park Rose Princess in high school. She spent many happy summer days tending to her rose bushes, lilac trees, and lilies.  She would sit in her backyard for hours watching and listening to the cardinals, blue jays, and finches. It was her happy place. Each Christmas she would create floral arrangements for the house and beautiful sleds for the front yard.

Shelia was an avid reader, sometimes reading a book or more a day.  Wherever she was her latest mystery novel was nearby. She instilled this love of reading in her daughters with frequent trips to their local library.  Shelia was truly a people person.  No matter where she was, she would find herself having a conversation with someone, talking about the good old days and making new connections.    

One of Shelia’s greatest loves was her beloved dogs. She adored the Pekingese breed and owned them her entire life. She admired their fierce loyalty to family and their stubborn, determined nature. They were her babies, and they brought her tremendous joy.  

Shelia is survived by her daughters, Sharon Stevens and Theresa Stevens, her grandson Cameron Stroud and many nieces, nephews, and cousins.  She is truly missed by her precious dogs Finnegan, Jameson, and Daniel. 

Our hearts are full of cherished memories of our time with Shelia. We will never forget the love she brought to our lives.

There will be no services at this time. In lieu of flowers please consider making a donation to Friends Forever Animal Shelter, 174 Gristwood Road, Pennellville, NY, 13132 in Shelia's memory.