Sheila O’Niell Lobdell, a remarkable woman of grace and vitality, passed away peacefully at the age of 97. Her journey through life was one defined by her unyielding spirit, limitless curiosity, and deep compassion. A true adventurer in every sense, Sheila’s legacy is one of unwavering loyalty, boundless happiness, and an indomitable positive outlook that touched the lives of all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Services will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2023 at Church of Assumption in Franklin, Louisiana from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at which time the Holy Rosary will be prayed. A eulogy will be delivered at 12:30 and Mass will follow at 1:00 PM. A graveside service will be held in Franklin Cemetery at 2:00 PM.
Born into a world rich with Irish heritage, Sheila embraced her roots with fervor and pride, embodying the strength and resilience that her ancestry symbolized. By 1945, she had achieved the remarkable feat of becoming a licensed pilot, exemplifying her passion for exploration and her willingness to break barriers. Her love for the outdoors and the soothing embrace of the Bayou Teche were an integral part of her existence, nurturing her soul and grounding her spirit throughout her life as a lifelong resident of Franklin, LA.
Sheila’s roles as a devoted mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother were pivotal to her identity, and her warmth and nurturing nature extended far beyond her immediate family. Her wisdom and well-read mind were a testament to her insatiable appetite for learning and growth. In her 60s, she channeled her creative spirit into writing children’s stories about nature, stories that found their way into the hearts of young readers and kindled a love for the world around them.
Music flowed through her veins, bringing her joy that resonated with those around her. An avid bird enthusiast, Sheila found solace and inspiration in the beauty of the avian world. Her love for animals extended to her cherished dogs, companions who shared in her adventures and provided boundless companionship.
Sheila’s adventures extended across oceans, as she traversed the lands of her beloved Ireland multiple times and embraced the thrill of travel. Her laughter, fueled by her vibrant sense of humor, was a melody that brightened the lives of everyone she encountered. Her presence was a testament to the power of joy and the impact of a life well-lived.
Sheila is survived by her loving children, Laura Lobdell Bergeron, Conrad Pat Lobdell, and Sheila Lacy Lobdell, each a testament to her nurturing love and enduring legacy. Her grandchildren, Jay Bergeron and his wife Greta, Lorraine Bergeron, Patrick Gillis, and Sean Gillis, carry forward her spirit with fond memories. Her great-grandchildren, Maddy B. Deshotels and her husband Jacob, and Oscar Bergeron, are a living tribute to her love and wisdom. The newest generation, her great-great-grandchild Eleanor Deshotels, embodies the continuation of her lineage.
Sheila’s memory is cherished by her extended family and friends, a community that was profoundly impacted by her kindness, generosity, and love. She now rejoins her parents, Conrad L. O’Niell and June (Julia) Harlan O’Niell, as well as her godparents, Rene’ and Laura Himel, in the embrace of eternity. Her grandchild, Lyla Lobdell, and son-in-law, Joey Bergeron, await her with open arms, surrounded by the eternal love that binds family together.
In celebrating Sheila O’Niell Lobdell’s remarkable life, we honor her legacy of adventure, loyalty, happiness, and compassion. May her memory continue to inspire us to live our lives with the same enthusiasm and zest for the world that she so beautifully exemplified.
In lieu of flowers the family asks that memorial donations be made to St. John – Hanson Schools, 924 Main St., Franklin, LA 70538, or to the St. Mary Parish Public Library, 206 Iberia Street, Franklin, LA 70538.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Ibert’s Mortuary in Franklin.