Shirley M. Sheehan

Shirley M. Sheehan, 90, of Alfred, passed away peacefully at home, supported by her loving family, on Thursday, August 7, 2025.

She was born on November 22, 1934, in Milford, Massachusetts, to the late Charles Hill and Jessie (Spavold) Hill. In her early years, the family moved frequently due to her father’s military service. Shirley spent much of her married life in Somerville, MA before settling in Maine, where she lived for the past 35 years.

Shirley met the love of her life, William Sheehan, on a blind date—a meeting that began a true love story. From that day forward, the two were inseparable, their devotion to each other an example and inspiration to their family. Together, they raised ten children and created a legacy built on faith, love, and family.

A devout Catholic, Shirley lived her faith every day. She was an active member and lay leader in her parish, serving as a cantor, coordinating the parish prayer line, and belonging to the Daughters of Isabella and Ladies of St. Anne. She had a deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary and placed her life in order of God first, then her husband, and then her family, all of whom never doubted her unwavering love.

Shirley’s talents were as abundant as her love. She wallpapered, upholstered, sewed, and was a wonderful cook and baker. She was an accomplished crafter, quilter, rug hooker, ceramic artist, and more. She also graced the stage in community theater productions.

Survivors include her beloved husband of 69 years, William Sheehan, children Bill Sheehan and his wife Sarah, Mary Sheehan, Tim Sheehan, Joe Sheehan, Annie Sheehan, Cathie Wiley and her husband Tom, Charlie Hides and his husband James, Claire Dobrolet and her husband John, Kevin Sheehan and his wife Debbie, and John Sheehan and his wife Melissa, grandchildren Kevin, Laura and Megan Dobrolet, Brennan, Kayleigh, Kyle and Jessica Sheehan, her sister Faith Bray and many nieces and nephews and extended family.

Shirley’s life was a testament to faith, devotion, and love and she will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held on Wednesday, August 13, 2025 from 9 to 10:30 at Black Heald and Walker Funeral Home, 580 Main St., Springvale, followed by a mass of Christian burial to be celebrated at 11:00 at St. Therese of Lisieux Parish, Holy Family Church, 66 North Ave, Sanford.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to Hospice of Southern Maine for the compassionate and loving care they provided during Shirley’s final months.

Those wishing to honor Shirley’s memory are invited to consider a donation to Hospice of Southern Maine at https://www.hospiceofsouthernmaine.org/donate.

Arrangements are under the direction of Black Heald and Walker Funeral Home and Cremation Service, Sanford-Springvale.