Sheila Cochran McGuire

9/10/1925 to 3/1/2025

Sheila Otis Cochran McGuire lived a life full of love, adventure, and unwavering strength. After a long and fulfilling journey, she passed peacefully at home, surrounded by the family she cherished.

Born in Pacific Grove, CA, to Beryl Otis Cochran and Horace James Cochran, Sheila was happy to be a fifth-generation Californian with roots on an old Gilroy ranch. She often reminisced about her idyllic childhood by the sea, where she and her friends roamed freely, spent endless summer days at Lovers Point, and developed a deep connection to the ocean. That love for the coast never faded—she found joy in her daily walks along the ocean-side paths, always feeling at home near the waves.

Sheila’s greatest adventures began when she met Jimmy, the love of her life, while he was stationed at Point Sur with the Coast Guard. They both loved music and dancing, especially Swing and Jitterbug, and built a beautiful life together. Married in 1950, they created a loving home for their seven children, filling it with activities, gardens, escapades, learning, and a strong sense of faith. Together, they built a business, enjoyed weekend family outings, participated with their church community, and were deeply involved in their children's education and activities. Sheila was a dedicated volunteer, lending her time to Mother’s Club, and playground supervision, and serving as a caring "Pink Lady" at CHOMP.

When Jimmy passed suddenly in 1980, Sheila faced the challenge with the resilience and determination that defined her life. She returned to school, earned her BA and accounting license, and built a successful career, including many years at Bradburn Company, CPA. Her ability to adapt, learn, and thrive inspires those who knew her.

A lifelong learner and avid reader, Sheila loved keeping up with business, news, and world affairs, always ready for a thoughtful discussion. She embraced life with a great sense of humor, gratitude, and kindness, living by her simple but powerful motto: “If you can’t say something nice, don’t say it.”

Sheila was a guiding light—steady, strong, and full of quiet wisdom. She believed in the power of dreams and instilled in her children the confidence to chase their own. She leaves a legacy of love, strength, and generosity of spirit.

Predeceased by her beloved Jimmy, Sheila is survived by her children and their spouses, who will forever carry her love and lessons in their hearts: Ellen (Paul) Gaucher, Kelly (Bruce) Head, Kathleen (Les) Kulp, Mary (Paul) Alessini, Susy (Louie) Castoria, James “Mick” (Lisa) McGuire, and Maurie McGuire (Scott Westlotorn); Grandchildren: Riley, Fletcher; Tim, Katie, Mary, Robert, Amanda, Jeff, Jody, Evelyn, Elizabeth, Sheila, Lily, and Emily, a passel of Great and Great-great grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews from the McGuire and Cochran families. When in a quandary, we have our mantra: WWSD – What Would Sheila Do?

We, the family, are forever grateful for the angelic care from her team: Andrea, Lisa, Nana, Janey, Becky, Pam, Ema, Sala, and Sosefina.

In place of flowers, contributions may be made to: Central Coast VNA & Hospice, Meals on Wheels of the Monterey Peninsula, Santa Catalina School Tuition Assistance, or a charity of your choice.

A Celebration of Life will be held 3/23/25, 2pm at York School Chapel, 9501 York Rd, Monterey, 93940 with a reception to follow. Please RSVP to [email protected]