Michael C. Sheff

Dr. Michael C. Sheff, a man of boundless compassion, humor, and heart, passed away on April 22, 2025. He leaves behind a legacy of love, service, and smiles. He was the devoted husband of Barbara Ross Sheff, and the proud father of Buffy Sheff Ross (Laurence), Brian Sheff (Allison), and Eric Sheff (Emily). To his grandchildren- Bella Ross, Jacob, Ryan, Zachary, and Eleanor Sheff- he was “Poppy,” their greatest cheerleader, and most steadfast source of love.

A compassionate pediatric dentist in Newton for over 50 years, Michael mentored generations of dental residents with grace and generosity. Early in his career, he established Dental Health Month, a joyous and impactful initiative in partnership with the Boston Celtics and Red Sox Foundations, Boston Children’s Museum, Ronald McDonald, and beloved children’s character Willie Whistle, to teach children the importance of dental hygiene.

As his career evolved, Michael turned his energy toward protecting children in a deeper way. In collaboration with the Massachusetts Dental Society, he founded the Stop Abuse and Neglect campaign, training dental professionals to recognize signs of abuse in children and individuals with disabilities- ensuring care beyond the chair.

Michael’s love for life extended beyond his profession. With Barbara, he co-owned The Candleshop Inn in York Beach, Maine- a simple day trip destination turned treasured summer sanctuary. He was also a legend at Camp Manitou, where he taught generations of children to be leaders. He was a fixture at the waterfront, where he taught countless boys how to swim and passed along his enduring love of sailing.

Born to Barney and Ida Sheff, Michael inherited a deep faith, a love of deli food, and a spirit of joyful service. His parents' pride surely soared when he received the Keeper of the Flame Award in 2019, recognizing a lifetime of meaningful contributions.

He was predeceased by his siblings: Ruth (Sheff) Rosenberg, Lillian (Sheff) Wallack, and Manfred Sheff, and is lovingly remembered by his sisters-in-law Carol Ross Albert (Stephen) and Roberta Ross Leventhal (Gary), as well as his many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, and countless others who called him family—whether by blood or by heart.

Michael leaves behind not only a grieving family, but thousands of patients whose lives and smiles shine brighter because of his gentle, effervescent care.

Funeral services will be held on Thursday, April 24, 2025 at 10:30am at Levine Chapels, 470 Harvard Street, Brookline, MA. The service may be viewed via livestream at the following link: https://www.levinelive.com/michaelsheff

Burial will follow at Sharon Memorial park, 40 Dedham Street, Sharon, MA.

Shiva will be held at his late residence on Thursday, April 24, 2025 from 5pm to 8pm and Friday, April 25, 2025 from 2pm to 6pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Massachusetts Dental Society Foundation in memory of Dr. Michael C. Sheff. Contributions will support Access To Care grants, providing oral health care and education to underserved communities across Massachusetts- a mission that reflects his lifelong devotion to service.

Website: https://www.massdental.org/Foundation

Mailing Address:

The MDS Foundation

Two Willow Street, Suite 200

Southborough, MA 01745