Melva Sharp Sheehand

August 23, 1932 - August 13, 2021

Melva Sharp Sheehand (born Lilly) passed away peacefully in Newark on Friday, August 13, 2021 shortly before 6 am. She was a resident of Newark for 56 years.

Born on August 23, 1932 in Raleigh County, West Virginia, Ms. Sheehand was the daughter of David B. and Theora Houchins Lilly.

She graduated from Concord College and spent decades as an educator and beloved substitute teacher at John R. Downes Elementary in Newark, where she made a big difference in the lives of hundreds of little ones. She was an active member of Newark United Methodist Church and a steadfast volunteer in her community, particularly at the Hope Dining Room. Later in life, she became a proud advocate for the LGBTQ community and other causes that supported children and families.

She is survived by her husband of 56 years, John F. Sheehand and five children: Sherry Weleski, Paula Jones (Kenneth), Melanie Sharp, Suzanne Townsend (John), and Roland Sharp (Tammy). She was the loving grandmother to eight grandchildren and six great-grandsons, all of whom absolutely adored her. Grandparenting was her most cherished role in life, one at which she excelled.

She was preceded in death by her first husband, Dr. Roland P. Sharp, Jr. and her seven siblings.

At Mrs. Sheehand’s request, there will be no memorial service and those wishing to remember her life may make contributions of sympathy to the Newark Empowerment Center, Newark Area Welfare Commission, Newark United Methodist Church, or to a favorite charity.

The family wishes to thank the caring and compassionate staff at Millcroft Senior Living. To send online condolences, please visit www.rtfoard.com.

RT Foard

Denise Frampton

Sherry Weleski and Cooper Weleski

Sherry Weleski

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Melva Sharp Sheehand (born Lilly) passed away peacefully in Newark on Friday, August 13, 2021 shortly before 6 am. She was a resident of Newark for 56 years. Born on August 23, 1932 in Raleigh County, West Virginia, Ms. Sheehand was the daughter of David B. and Theora Houchins Lilly. She graduated fromContinue Reading

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Mr. Sheehand, you sure knew how to pick well because that was sure one lady you had there! Anyone in your company knew and saw and felt the love and joy you had with each other and your family. You generously extended that to others consistently, including me. Your and Melva's loyalty is amazing and continues to serve your children well and will, I know, in the coming days as they grieve a huge loss. I want to try to be as happy and kind as she was...

To all the Sheehand, Sharp, and Lilly families, Roger and I would like to send our love, condolences, thoughts and prayers. We have a good long history with you all. Melva was a wonderful person and came from a good family. Keeping you in our thought and prayers. Love, Pris & Roger Hendricks

The Moore Family would like to extend their deepest sympathies to the Sharp/Sheehand Family. Melva was a wonderful neighbor and will always be a part of our lifetime memories. Sending loving thoughts to Jack and the Family.

To Mr. Sheehand, Sherry, Paula, Melanie, Suzy, RP and all the spouses and grandchildren; I am so sorry to hear of Melva’s passing. There are so many memories of her in my life on Vassar Dr. She loved and cared fiercely. When I visit my mom I see all the homes of my dear childhood friends and families and think & wonder about everyone. So much of who we are today is because of our “wonder years” on Vassar Dr. I send my love to all of you.

So sorry to hear of Mrs. Sheehand's passing. It was a pleasure to know her & her family and will keep them in my Prayers. May God Hold Her in The Palm of His Hand Until You Meet Again.

Peace of mind is a call away. We’re here when you need us most.

Melva and Jack were a wonderful couple that I met when they moved to Millcroft. I was the Director of Marketing and later the Director of Activities and was very happy to have a such friendly and social couple as part of the Millcroft community. Melva was the second “Melva” to be living at Millcroft Independent Living. Melva McIntyre and Melva Sheehan became good friends. It was wonderful to see Melva and Jack participate in the many activities and to be able to visit with their families. I will keep them in my thoughts and prayers.

It was a pleasure to take care of your Mom, she was and is a sweet LADY, she was always so thankful for any help we gave her, and I was so happy to see her smile when I would take her to meet your Dad at meal time. We will meet again some day, I know we will . My prayers are for all of you!! Lynn

I was so saddened to hear about the passing of your Mother. I am so sorry for your loss. Sending my deepest and heartfelt condolences to all of you and your family. I have such fond childhood memories spending time at your house, your mom was always so kind and welcoming. She was truly a classy lady and a dear family friend. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Those we love don’t go away, they walk beside us in our hearts and memories. Love Tina

My deepest sympathy to all of Melva’s children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and husband , as well as all those whose lives she touched. In this time of sorrow, you can find comfort in knowing how much she cared for each of you . She was a good friend.

SIP (sleep in peace) Mom. You’ll truly be missed.

Mom Mom, I can now fit on your lap and you can sneak me lots of special treats. Love you lots. Come and find me. ?????? Coopie

Rest In Peace, Mom. You are on to a better life and will see all our pets, your mother and father and all your sisters and brothers and other friends you loved. An angel crossed over. God bless you. Love, Sherry

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.