Obituary of Muriel Grace Sheldon

It is with sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Muriel Grace Sheldon (Hotson), on April 1, 2022. She died peacefully, surrounded by family at the age of 95 in her cherished home town of St. Marys. 

Born on May 12th, 1926 to the late Walter & Emma Hotson (Barnett). Muriel was predeceased by sister Ruth McTavish (Bob), brother Murray (Ora), brother-in-law Clayton Sheldon, husband to surviving Phyllis Sheldon. Survived by sons Alan Sheldon (Paula), Donald Sheldon (Kit), Ray Sheldon (Peggy), and John Sheldon (Kate), along with 13 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Born in Stratford, she grew up in Downie Township where she lived until her marriage to Cecil Sheldon, in 1951. Following his tragic death in 1966, she and her 4 sons carried on the family farm for several years. Muriel was a long-time member of the St. Marys Presbyterian church, and also the first female elder of the church. At the age of 80 she was named Perth South’s Senior of the Year, in recognition of her volunteer work with the St. Marys Museum, Meals on Wheels, St. Marys Hospital, social events at her church, and was often involved with local political issues. Often relied on for advice on local historical facts, Muriel put her knowledge to use in writing the Looking Back column for the Journal Argus for 14 years. Muriel had a substantial impact on her community that she cared so much for, sharing her time and knowledge, and was a friend to all. If you had a chance to speak with Muriel, you would know right away that she possessed a great sense of wit and humour. Cats, dogs, babies, trains, collectable spoons, historical facts, and socializing at Tim Horton’s were a few of her favourite things in life.

The family would like to thank the Kingsway staff for all their care and love in her later years, as well as a thank you to the staff at St. Marys Memorial Hospital, during her final days.

Family and friends are invited to the Andrew L.  Hodges Funeral Home, 47 Wellington St. S. St. Marys, (519-284-2820) on Tuesday, April 5, 2022 for visiting from 1 pm until the time of the Funeral Service at 2 pm. Those in attendance are invited to maintain their own personal level of COVID-19 precautions.

Click here to view a video of the funeral service.

Burial will follow in the St. Marys Cemetery. Muriel will be buried next to her beloved husband, Cecil. Friends and family are invited to a reception to follow, at St. Marys Legion Hall, 66 Church St. N. St Marys.

Memorial donations may be made to the

Stratford Perth Humane Society
125 Griffith Rd, Stratford, ON N5A 6S4

St. Marys Presbyterian Church
147 Widder St East, St. Marys, ON, N4X 1B1

or the St. Marys Healthcare Foundation
P.O. Box 940 St. Marys,ON N4X 1B6