Sheila Rose Cullen

Sheila was the beloved wife of 58 years to the late James V. Cullen. Their lifelong love story began while they were both serving their countries in Malta -- James in the U.S. Navy and Sheila in the Royal Navy. It was there, against the backdrop of their shared service, that they fell in love. Remarkably, Sheila and James shared the same birthday—December 29, 1942—and, in a touching symmetry, both passed away on January 1, two years apart.

She was a devoted and loving mother to Caroline Lazzaruolo (Raniero) and Colleen Lapietra (Joseph), an adored grandmother to Alexandra and Alaina, and a great-grandmother to Isla, all of whom brought her immense joy. She was the dear sister of the late Vincent Low. Family meant everything to Sheila, and she adored each generation with her whole heart.

She was extremely proud of her English heritage and proudly served as a "Wren" in the Women's Royal Naval Service, a branch of the United Kingdom's Royal Navy. Along with James, she enjoyed traveling and cruising, especially their cherished voyages aboard the Queen Mary 2 with their family.

Whether she was tending to her gardens at their log cabin in upstate New York or preparing a traditional English Sunday roast, Sheila’s home was always full of love for her family. A gifted knitter, she poured her love into every stitch of the sweaters and blankets she made for three generations of her family; these cherished gifts remain a lasting testament to her love.

A visitation for Sheila will be held on Sunday, January 4, 2026, from 2:00–4:00 PM and 6:00–8:00 PM at O.B. Davis Funeral Homes, 4839 Nesconset Highway, Port Jefferson Station, NY 11776. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Infant Jesus Roman Catholic Church, 110 Myrtle Avenue, Port Jefferson, NY 11777, the time is pending. Interment will follow at Calverton National Cemetery, 210 Princeton Boulevard, Calverton, NY 11933.

Sheila Rose Cullen will be remembered for her devotion to family, her kindness, her talents, and the love she so freely gave. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.