Shelia Erlane Golden

Her family moved to Dallas, Texas, and she spent most of her time living in Garland, Texas. Shelia earned her General Education Development certificate in 1998 graduating as Valedictorian in her class.

Shelia had a lengthy career with the United States Postal Service, retiring after 30 years. Shelia was a member of the Richardson Newcomers Neighbors Club including a variety of card groups. She was an active member of Hunters Glen Baptist Church where she enjoyed spending time with her Women’s Sunday School class, teaching English as a Second Language (ESL), and volunteering with the CARE Special Needs ministry. She was also active with First Baptist Garland women’s ministries.

Shelia loved to travel with family and friends. Trips included Israel and the Holy Land, South Vietnam, Japan, cruises, Alaska, California, Florida, New York, Philadelphia, Branson, and most recently two weeks in the British Ises.

Shelia is survived by her daughter, Kathy Kwasniak and her husband, Terry; her stepdaughter, Jennifer Golden and her husband, Steve; her grandchildren, Matthew and Robert Kwasniak, and Joshua Thomas; great grandchildren, Carter and Karley Thomas; her sister Doris Lanham; and many nieces and nephews.

Shelia was preceded in death by her mother, Essie Mae Haley, two loving Aunts, and her son, Donnie Thomas.

Shelia was a devoted Mother, Sister, Granny, and friend. She lived life to the fullest and was a ray sunshine to those who knew her. “Joy” was her favorite word; she lived a life full of joy and gratitude from her faith in Christ.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, June 30, 2026, at Hunters Glen Baptist Church, 4001 Custer Road, Plano, TX 75023. The family invites you to a time of celebration of life following the service.