Mrs. Sheila Beatrice Lisnek

Born in Chicago, Illinois, to Pearl and Joseph Richman, Sheila carried her care and determination with her throughout her life. She worked for many years as a secretary for an insurance company before later finding one of her greatest career joys as a receptionist at an assisted living community. She loved that role, greeting residents with kindness, learning their stories, and making each person feel seen and valued.

Above all else, Sheila was a devoted mother, grandmother, great-grandmother and friend. She dedicated much of her life to lovingly caring for her daughter, Marla, whose disability never changed the fierce love and advocacy Sheila gave her every single day. Whenever her kids needed her, she was there to support them. Her family was the center of her world, and she never stopped worrying about them, checking in on them, and making sure everyone was okay. It was one of the many ways she showed her love.

Sheila treasured the friendships she built throughout her life. Whether she was gathered around a mahjong table, sharing laughs, planning her next cruise, or traveling somewhere new, she embraced life’s adventures with enthusiasm. She was fiercely independent, wonderfully stubborn, and never afraid to speak her mind. Those who knew her will forever remember her quick wit, sharp sense of humor, and ability to make people laugh even during difficult times.

Sheila is survived by her daughter, Ellen Aven (Hezi Gabai), granddaughter, Elisa (Brian) Halliley, and great-grandson, Liam Halliley, who will forever cherish her love, strength, sassiness, and countless memories. Her legacy lives on in the care she showed others, the sacrifices she made for her family, and the laughter she brought into every room she entered.