Sheila Courtney Shanahan of Newtown, beloved mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, died December 3. She was the wife of the late Richard Shanahan. She was born on St Valentine's Day in Killarney, County Kerry, Ireland, daughter of the late Nora (Leary) and William Courtney.

Raised in Ireland, Mrs Shanahan lived in England and Canada before settling with her family in Newtown.

Her six children and their spouses, Michael Shanahan, Maureen and Robert Tremarzo, Sheila Mapes, Patricia and Arlindo Fonseca, Sean and Patricia Shanahan, and Terence and Trish Shanahan; 11 grandchildren, Courtney Onofer and husband Palo, Kevin Tremarzo, Michael Mapes, Allison Mapes, Morgan Fonseca, John Fonseca, Rich Shanahan and wife Tina, Haley Mozonski and husband Mike, Connor Shanahan, Casey Shanahan, and Craig Shanahan; and two great-grandchildren survive her.

Her husband of 52 years, Richard; her brothers, Daniel, Matthew, and Cornelius; her sisters, Bridget (Sister Antoinette Courtney) and Nora; and a son-in-law, Robert Mapes, predeceased her.

A devoted wife and loving mother, her children say that their mom will be remembered for her devotion to her family and her tireless work ethic. From the Sunday breakfasts after church to the large Sunday and holiday dinners, their mom was happiest when she had a full house to feed. They especially want to thank the wonderful staff at Glen Hill Center for their gentle and compassionate care of their mom.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on December 7 at St Rose of Lima Church, Newtown. Burial followed at St Rose Cemetery, Sandy Hook.

Contributions in Mrs Shanahan's name may be made to St Rose Church, Parish Outreach Ministry, 46 Church Hill Road, Newtown CT 06470.