Sheila Dianne Lawson, a beloved mother, grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully in her home in Spanaway, Washington, on June 22, surrounded by all of her children, and one of her granddaughters. She was 78.
Born July 26, 1946, in Jackson, Georgia, Sheila lived a full, joyous, and purposeful life, always putting her loved ones at the center of her world. She found strength and solace in her faith, her family said. She raised her four children with love, wisdom, and unwavering devotion. She has gone home to be with the love of her life, Nels.
Sheila came to Sitka in 1980, and made it her family home until moving to Spanaway in 2023. She was an active member of Sitka Lutheran Church and belonged to its quilting group. She was an owner of The Shepherd's Heart store and of a laundry, and worked at McDonald's.
Sheila had a heart full of compassion and was a pillar of support for all who knew her. She found joy in the simple things—a morning cup of coffee, an afternoon walk, and the laughter of her children and grandchildren. She was a woman of grace, faith, and kindness, and her legacy lives on in the lives she touched.
She is survived by her four children, Deborah (Rick) Gonzales of Fairbanks, Pauline (Greg) Mead of Elma, Washington, Arthur (Angie) Stephens of Spanaway, and Nels (Kristi) Lawson of Sitka and Tacoma, Washington; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great-grandchildren; and friends who will forever cherish her memory.
The family expressed thanks to all who offered love and support during her journey. "In honoring her, we reflect on the words from the Book of Psalms: 'My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever.' Psalms 73:26."'
As Sheila requested, no services are planned. "She did not want any sadness, just celebration and joy about the good life that she had," a family member wrote.
