Sheila Jeanne Stone

Sheila Jeanne Stone, 87, of Springfield, IL, died at 7:10 p.m. on Tuesday, January 14, 2014 at Barnes-Jewish Hospital in St. Louis, MO. Sheila was born December 23, 1926 in Fort Wayne, IN, the daughter of Ray and Bernice Snyder Schomp. She married Byron Franklin Stone and he preceded her in death on March 23, 1990. Sheila received her undergraduate degree from North Dakota State University and her Master's Degree from the University of Illinois. She went on to be a teacher for 50 years, teaching elementary school, middle school, and was a reading specialist. She taught at Lawrence Education Center, Lincoln Land Community College, Franklin Middle School, Jefferson Middle School, and Palmer and Staley Elementary Schools. Sheila was a member of Laurel United Methodist Church and belonged to a Church Circle. She was also a member of the Springfield Education Association, Illinois Retired Teachers Association, the National Education Association, and a Phi Beta Kappa lifetime member. She also belonged to the Illinois Reading Council, Delta Kappa Gamma Education Society, and the Illinois Adult and Continuing Education Association. Sheila was an avid bridge player and reader. She was a staunch supporter of many animal rights organizations. She was also preceded in death by her parents; one brother, Donald Schomp; and one stepson, Robert Stone. She is survived by two daughters, Shelley Kelley of Wellington, Florida and Suzanne Hembrough of Weldon Spring, MO; two stepsons, James (wife, Barb) Stone of Boise, ID and Raymond (wife, Sue) Stone of Tucson, AZ; five grandchildren; ten step grandchildren; many great-grandchildren; one niece and one nephew; her beloved puppy, Sheba; and many friends. Cremation will be accorded by Butler Cremation Tribute Center prior to ceremonies. Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: Family will receive friends from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the memorial ceremony at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 20, 2014 at Laurel United Methodist Church, 631 S. Grand Ave. W., Springfield, with Rev. Jerry King officiating. Burial will be held at Camp Butler National Cemetery at a later date. Sheila led an effervescent life. At Sheila's request, please wear vibrant colors as a way to honor her. Memorial contributions may be made to: Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Rd., Springfield, IL 62702.