Obituary of Sheila J. Sears

     Sheila J. Sears, 74, of New York Mills, formerly of Utica, passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2024, after losing her battle with cancer.

     Sheila was born in Utica, on November 22, 1950, the daughter of Albert and Rose “Judy” (Marsh) Sears. She was raised in Utica and was a graduate of St. Francis de Sales High School and was of Catholic faith. In her free time, Sheila loved traveling, which included various trips to Ireland and going to the casino.

     In her early career, Sheila was employed as a library assistant at SUNY College in Marcy and later at the Utica Law Library. She also was an active member of the CSEA Union. During her 40 plus years of service as a member of the CSEA Union, Sheila, also known as “Miss CSEA” held several positions throughout the local chapters and region. Positions ranged from chairing a number of committees, as well as serving as Treasurer and President of CSEA Local 014.

     Sheila is survived by her son, Christopher Sears of New York Mills;  two brothers and one sister, Larry Sears of Utica, Ronald (Mary) Sears of FL and Sherry (Tom) Wong of Utica; her cherished nieces and nephews, Chantelle (Jerome) Allen, Kristen Sears, Anissa Sears, Lynn (Mike) Stevens, Justin (Meaghan) Sears, Tomasina Wong, Nicole Wong and Michelle (Jeff) Pukacz; adored great nieces and nephews, Joshua, Karimah, Alanis, Marcus, McKenna, Gabby, Ryan, Kaedin, Riley, Kamari, Kyleigh, Ethan, Liam, Logan, Lincoln; and close family friends Michael Shepard and Bob Barron. She was predeceased by her parents, Albert and Judy Sears, and an infant sister, Sharon Judith Sears.

    We would be remiss if we did not mention several of her long-term and loyal friends. Sherida Ruiz of California, a loyal childhood friend. Despite Sherida’s move to California, Sheila and Sherida maintained their relationship until this day. Sheila would visit Sherida to spend the Super Bowl every year, in either Las Vegas or at her residence. Sherida was her loving buddy and very dear friend who continued daily communication throughout her illness.

     During her time with the CSEA Union, Sheila worked very closely with Don Lynskey and Colleen Wheaton. They became very close friends, and their friendship continued even after Sheila retired. Along with Don and Colleen, Sheila maintained her friendships with many other CSEA retirees through monthly luncheons.

     Visitation for family and friends is Saturday, December 28, 2024, from12:00-3:00 p.m. at the Heintz Funeral Home, 1517 Whitesboro St., Utica, followed by a funeral service at 3:00 p.m. at the conclusion of visitation. She will be laid to rest at Mount Olivet Cemetery in Frankfort, NY in the spring. Please omit floral offerings and consider donating to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Pl., Memphis, TN 38105 (stjude.org) or to a charity of your choice.