☘️  A superb Irish gal leaves us on St. Patrick’s Day …

Sheila Marie (Kelly) Sharemet — strong in mind, body and soul — passed away on March 17, 2025 at age 68 at her beloved home in Houston, Texas.

Sheila built an accomplished career, satisfying personal life, and strong community connections — all of which outlive her. For the many who mourn her sad passing and grieve over the hole her death leaves, remember that her life was one to be celebrated and emulated, to be admired and honored. She’d want it that way.

Born December 6, 1956 in Monmouth Beach, NJ, she was the daughter of Charles W. Kelly, MD and Joan (Sheehan) Kelly, both Brooklyn natives and Jersey Shore transplants. Sheila attended the Star of the Sea Academy on Chelsea Avenue in Long Branch and graduated from the Monmouth Beach School in 1970. Both learning intuitions helped form her earnest persona and noble nature and gained her lifelong friendships. In 1974, Sheila graduated from Red Bank Catholic High School (where all five Kelly sisters attended). At RBC she was nothing short of a star.

By the Beach
Home base for Sheila’s family was in the borough of Monmouth Beach at 40 River Avenue — a short walk to the ocean or the river. The family’s 4,000-square-foot Tudor-style house sat on a hill; her Dad paid $17,000 in 1963 for the one-acre property. Through the front door was a 50-foot wide living room, with vaulted 40-foot high ceilings and a spectacular 25-foot long balcony, all covered in pricey redwood. The room had quite a wow factor. Perfect for big parties and the family hosted more than its share.

A large country kitchen was warm, welcoming and conducive to conversation and connection. In the center was a wooden kitchen table that seated the whole family — parents and 8 siblings (5 girls and 3 boys). It was family central for the Kellys for two decades.

The house was a happening place — with a near “open-door” policy — for our large assortment of relatives, friends and neighbors. The home had a real charm and action was constant. Despite its grand trappings, the house had an agreeable worn look and feel to it. A real family lived there. Today, 60+ years later family members still encounter people who tell how much they valued the family, its spirit and appeal, and the inviting warmth of the home.

In Monmouth Beach everybody belonged, even the oddballs somehow found a way. This was the community my sister knew before she moved to the big city. The town had a church and a school, an ocean and a river, a corner store and a bar, a library and a park, and a night club and a gas station. All in one-square-mile. Sheila grew up in a small, safe community. A good town with a sturdy foundation. It’s not a big stretch to call her times in Monmouth Beach as “golden years.”

All homes have memories — good and bad. Sheila’s was no different. Over the course of three years during 1971-74, the family lost two sibling sisters (both under age 22) in two separate car accidents. Like all her siblings, Sheila suffered greatly from these tragic losses. A cruel fate delivering a lasting hurt. Summarily, she had to seek coping mechanisms. From the pit of despair Sheila found self-confidence and self-respect, determination and diligence, curiosity and caring, working and playing hard and a passion for life. Traits she developed all on her own; then sought to pass on to others.

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☘️ Sheila Sharemet … Celebration of Life, Houston, TX — HERE

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A Runaway Hit
No student-athlete ever brought more pride and glory to Red Bank Catholic High School sports. Sheila’s legitimate claim to fame is based purely on merit — her extraordinary record in cross-country and track racing. The young lady was super-fast. For her remarkable running achievements, Sheila was a two-time inductee into the RBC “Athletic Hall of Fame.” Like always Sheila covered the bases — gaining entry on her own (2017) and as a team member (2025).

While at RBC, Sheila earned varsity letters in three different sports — Track & Field, Cross Country and Gymnastics. This included membership on several trailblazing athletic teams that won 7 state championships during her time as a Casey student-athlete.

It was Coach Jack Rafter — revered as the father of girl’s cross-country athletics in New Jersey — who first saw and sculpted her ability (in mind and body). He called Sheila “one of the most intense competitors I’ve ever seen” and characterized her competitive racing record as “amazing.” Combining the desire to compete and the discipline to improve, Sheila was the textbook “coach-able athlete.”

Coach Rafter explained that with her “desire to excel,” “strong, flowing motion,” and “powerful forward trust,” Sheila made running “look easy.” And was a metaphor for her life.

Rafter — the high school coach right out of Central Casting — proved to be among Sheila’s most key and enduring mentors (and she had plenty). The coach knew a winner when he saw one. Over a 25-year career, his running teams (girls and boys) earned more than 500 victories while posting an 82% winning percentage and winning nine state championships. It was Rafter who started the state’s first girl’s cross-country team with  60 young female athletes in Fall 1969. He was at RBC for 45 years before retiring in 2006. A Newark native, he died in June 2011.

In an amazing display of early athletic prowess, Sheila was twice a NJ state champion in the 880-Yard dash (the half-mile). The first, in 1971, as a freshman student. She went on to compile a perfect undefeated record in dual track meets during her RBC running career. Sheila was also named to several All-State, All-County and All-Shore teams for her running (then much-coveted honors for all young athletes). Adding to her winner’s touch, she was also a member of the RBC girls’ varsity gymnastics team in 1974, a team that won the state championship.

Terrific as an individual player, terrific as a teammate, Sheila was part of a remarkable group of young female cross-country athletes. In a sport they were long denied access to due to their gender — instantly upon inclusion competed at the highest level. As close to athletic perfection as a team can get. RBC truly was “title town” when it came to 1970s girl’s cross-country racing.

Perfection on the field of competition was their banner and Sheila was the star performer. The Caseyette’s captured the first officially sanctioned NJSIAA State Championship meet for a girl’s cross country team in 1972. The team would complete five consecutive flawless seasons — five straight unbeaten seasons and five straight state titles. These athletic pioneers — forged in competitive excellence — ran for the RBC Casey banner.

It wasn’t easy for Shelia or her team, however, no one wanted them at the beginning. These young girls had no guide book, no official support, little gear (they borrowed sneakers and running shorts in the beginning), and no track to run on (they trained on Red Bank streets and at local beaches). Starting with nothing — all they did was win. Over five seasons — with different runners and coaches — RBC girl’s teams would compile an amazing record of athletic achievement in cross country running. Total excellence. Alone at the top. Shelia led this group of elite female athletes who never knew defeat as competitive runners.

Only serious physical injuries to her feet prevented Sheila from competing at the college level. After earning a B.S. degree in Health and Physical Education from Lock Haven State College in Lock Haven, PA in 1979, she moved her life south.

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“Life isn’t about finding yourself. Life is about creating yourself.”
—George Bernard Shaw

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Deep in the Heart …
After college Sheila landed in Houston, Texas. While never losing touch with her Jersey Shore roots and fond memories there, Sheila adapted smoothly to the Texas life — eager to learn about and embrace its people, places and things. There she built her life — one productive and with a purpose. She grew to love her adopted home state and was proud to be called a “Texan.”

It was there that she met her future husband, John P. Sharemet. A University of Michigan graduate, Siemens sales executive and Houston Holocaust Museum docent, John was her faithful partner for 38 years. Their only child was son, J.P. (John Patrick) Sharemet. Houston-born, he now lives in Louisiana with his wife, Heidi. Both are Louisiana State University grads and devoted enthusiasts of that school’s sports team (they even made Sheila into a LSU Tiger).

Combining harmony with cozy, she made a fine home for her family and cared for and loved her only child beyond measure. She was so joyful that he found happiness for himself while also getting the daughter she wanted. Their two children, Phillip and Bridget, her grandkids (they called her “She-She”) were her final gifts from God. During her illness and its ravenous impact on her body, those beautiful children brought her only more joy, more strength and more satisfaction. Now she’s their angel in Heaven.

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“You live once, but if you do it right, that’s enough.”
—Mae West

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In Charge
To know Sheila was respect her career and realize the lasting impact that her craft had on so many others. She gave it her all. In 2023, she retired from British Petroleum (BP) after 30 years of service with the giant $85+ billion international energy company.

Inspired by her father and her uncle, Dr. George Sheehan, Jr., (the Red Bank physicians were brother’s-in-law and medical partners), and building on her own athletic exploits and interests, Sheila gravitated to work in the health and fitness field and stayed for 40 years of excellence — mostly as a high-level manager at corporate fitness centers.

Sheila dedicated her own life to bettering the human condition. Though example and attitude she helped countless others to find and keep wellness. Known and respected as the “Godmother of Houston Corporate Fitness,” Sheila was instrumental in designing and operating five major fitness centers in Texas. Employing patience, persistence and professionalism, Sheila educated and swayed her big corporate superiors about the vitality of her programs and the need for growth. Her final state-of-the-art fitness center included 4,000+ members. BP named the facility in her honor in May 2025.

A warm smile, encouraging nature, curious mind, and command knowledge of her work were the tools she used for gaining and building trust in her patrons. Sheila had a gift — the capacity for effecting meaningful (often radical) change in the life of others — and shared it well. She was an expert — on fitness, on training, on exercise, on diet. An avid reader and researcher, she was a lifetime student of wellness and, thankfully for us all, an educator brimming with information and eager to share it.

The wellness wisdom she imparted was priceless and enduring. Stories abound of how her fitness instructions were passed along to spouses, friends, family members, BP colleagues, etc. There was nothing “cookie-cutter” about her health/fitness advice and counsel. Everyone got a one-to-one accounting and guidance based on her personal observations. Her aptitude for sizing-up an individual and discerning their capabilities made it seem like anything was possible. And while Sheila was skilled about knowing when to apply the carrot or the stick in physical fitness pursuits, above all, she would counsel — have a plan and keep at it.

Her faith and experience about the necessity of good health and the wisdom on how to maintain it was infectious. Possessed of an “off the dial” resolve, Sheila believed in people who sought her assistance and that helped them believe in themselves. What finer legacy.

Family to the End
Sheila’s battle against cancer mirrored the way she lived her life. Fortified by knowing that education, attitude and effort can provide understanding and wisdom, she valiantly fought and lived with cancer for some 15 years. Always learning about her condition, maintaining a positive attitude, and gifted with a body that responded well to unique cancer drugs, she got more time and used it to the fullest — getting to welcome two beautiful grandchildren along the way.

In the final months of her illness Sheila was tenderly cared for by her loving sister, Shannon. Her guardian, protector and blood buddy to the last breath. Shannon’s measure of love, devotion, kindness was unmatched. Older by a year, Shannon put her life on hold so that Sheila had an ending with pride, comfort and sense. The affection and respect exhibited by the two sisters — during very sad and trying times — on display for the family made the loss more bearable.

Sheila is survived by two sisters, Shannon Ann Booth of Long Branch and Joan Elizabeth Kelly and her partner, Rick, of Eatontown; and three brothers, Owen Ward Kelly and his wife Jennifer of Red Bank; Gregory John Kelly of Sea Bright; and Charles Ward, Kelly, Jr., and his wife Lisa of Long Branch; and her in-laws, Fran Capone and Maureen Kelly. Shelia loved, cherished and lost two beautiful sisters, Claire Elizabeth Kelly (1952-1971) and Alice Ward Kelly, RN, (1953-1974). She leaves 16 nieces and nephews: Alexandria, Andrew, and Robert Kelly; David, Shaun, Paul and Charlie Booth; Kyle and Lauren Kelly; Elizabeth, Alexander, Catharine, and Margaret Kelly; Claire, Virginia, and Katherine Stroby. Sheila was also part of the Sheehan family on her mother’s side which included 14 aunts and uncles and 80 first cousins.

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A Brother’s Memories …
Sheila had a real zest for life — and was always fun to be around. Among her many unique traits and talents that I’ll miss:

She was a marvelous cook (her breakfasts alone represented “fine dining”); she had exceptional organizational skills (her being unprepared for parties or professionally was unheard of); she treasured exploring great cities (her trick was to grab a drink at great hotel bars); and she knew how to make and be a friend (her “good-buddy” list was uncountable).

She was proud of the home she made (her comfy-decor style ruled inside and out); she thought that first impressions were lasting (her early morning good cheer at the gym provided extra incentive to others for decades); she connected with young people all her life (her son’s bevy of buddies considered her a “second mom”); and she loved music and read the bios of all the greats (but was herself unable to carry a tune).

She knew how to mark important times for others (her card-writing and gift-giving touch was distinctively classy); she honored her mother and father (and her quest to comprehend their strengths and weaknesses brought her acceptance and humility); she practiced “praise with a purpose” (her compliments were both genuine and motivating); and she liked to get to the point (her habit for direct talk was mostly on display).

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“The best way to know God is to love many things.”
—Vincent van Gogh

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More:
• Brief History of the Sheehan/Ennis Families — HERE
• Alice Kelly: Taken 50 Years Ago — HERE
• The Doctor’s Doctor — HERE
• “The Reservation” … Long Branch’s Cottage Colony — HERE
• Doctoring by the River — HERE
• George Sheehan: “The Running Doc” — HERE
• Monmouth Beach Educates a Doctor — HERE

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Remembering Sheila …

Some thoughtful reflections from family, friends and colleagues:

• “I tell you in the clearest most unequivocal way – you are my Hero! Whatever I have done that is good or brave or strong, I’ve done in large part due to you. You have inspired and encouraged me in ways you can never imagine. You are the toughest, bravest, kindest and most awesome person I have ever known. You taught me I can do hard things, to be hopeful and optimistic in the face of the hardest of circumstances and not to be a victim of my genetics or upbringing. My strength — physically and emotionally — is a credit to you.”
— Ali Kelly

• “Thank you for being an inspiration for my whole life. The way you have always gone out an attacked life has motivated me to go out an attack mine. You are such a ‘do-er.’ You don’t sit around talking about doing things — you just go do them. You shared fabulous career insights at a time when I was trying to figure out mine and you inspired me to work hard for what I wanted. Your dedication to other’s wellness is beautiful and admirable. It reminds me of the Pablo Picasso quote: ‘the meaning of life is to find your gift; the purpose of life is to give it away.’ That defines you and your amazing legacy.”
— Lauren Joan Kelly

• “Sheila really lived a wonderful life.”
— Sharon Dougherty

•  “You have always been a woman of practical and strong faith. I remember painfully well how brave you had to be when your two sisters died and then the terrible loss of your mother at a young age. You were always ready to help, pitch in, suffer in silence and do whatever needed doing. Now as you struggle through to the end, you know what awaits you in the hereafter. What a grand Sheehan/Kelly feast it will be.”
— Sister Joan Magnetti

• “I have so many good memories of going to your house as kid. You were vibrant, full of fun and always cooler than any of my family was. Your parents and sisters are waiting for you with open arms and angel’s wings.”
— Maureen Sheehan

• “Sheila was a marvelous woman — the best cousin and friend you could have.”
— Mary Hopkins Long

• “I have felt your love and support for me and my reporting in Pittsburgh. I have been sustained by all your encouraging messages. I know you have been a source of strength for your family and friends and you’ve done it all with your own signature grace and humor.”
— Andy Sheehan

• “Sheila has always had a very strong identity, unique, so direct, so perceptive and frank about her view of any situation, but unendingly friendly with a very Irish wry sense of humor.”
— Swazi Clarity

• “Sheila was a year ahead of me at RBC and it was such a thrill to see her run. She ran like she was mad at the dirt. But more importantly, she was a kind and intrepid leader. I was a socially inept nerd with anxiety issues. Back in those days, we did not have bullying education; we had Sheila. She made our team a safe place. Make no mistake, she would kick your ass if you were not giving your all. But if you were trying your best, she made it so easy to feel loved and be part of a team. My dad was her coach, and I know he was there waiting for her when she crossed that last finish line.”
— Colleen Rafter

• “When you train together as distance runners there’s a lot (a lot, a lot) of time for conversation. Those times with Sheila I can feel to this day — every bit of it. In my heart, in my character, in my being. Sheila to me has always seemed ebullience personified. She is never drama, she is cheer, she is joy, she is energy. A piece of my heart will leave with you and a piece of yours will stay on with me.”
— Kathy Kolarsick

• “The word that best describes you is strong — physically and mentally. You are my role model and inspiration — today and forever.”
— Kim Holsey

• “Sheila was an amazing person. I’m sure Claire and Alice were there to meet her.”
— Noreen Nolan Raso

• “When our paths crossed in the BP cafeteria you often commented on my breakfast choice, encouraging a healthy lifestyle. I would smile but there were mornings I needed that push to make the right choice. Your stern look was always followed with a smile, letting me know just how serious you were about maintaining a disciplined life. You made me accountable and I am forever grateful for your love of people and their well-being.”
— Judy Wilson

• “I saw it every day in the gym — you working with people — always patient, attentive, and curious. If we all had those three traits like you the world would be a much better place.”
— Mark Brand

• “Your joy for life as a 7^th and 8^th grader at the Monmouth Beach School was infectious. While we all struggled with physical and emotional growth, you just sparkled. With a twinkle in your eye and a smile on your face, you made light of the drama surrounding us. You came by your kindness honestly but I’m not sure where you found that awesome sense of humor. Your positive impact on the world was one person, one laugh at a time.”
— Leslie (Kuhlthau) Hoffman

• “You are well-known as the best trail-blazer in corporate fitness in Houston. You were there from the beginning of time and everyone knows it. Your hard work, creativity, endless energy, vision, and incredible leadership made you #1. You built the best. Above all, though, it’s your easy-going personality, caring attitude and love for others is what I truly admire. God broke the mold after you.”
— Karen Behrend

• “No one I ever came across in my 37 years at BP — all over the world — has done more to encourage and epitomize company spirit than you. Never doubt you are loved by countless souls at BP and beyond.”
— Andrew Hill

• “You created and drove the health and wellness culture at BP. The gym enabled me to go back and finish what I needed to. It was my refuge. It was my escape. What a legacy you have made.”
— Cyndi DeWitt

• “Thank you for always believing in me and for being there in all the ways you have been over the years. You were my first real ‘big girl boss’ and still my favorite.”
— Becky Laird

• “As a novice to workouts (I thought running was all I needed), Sheila taught me how to create the mind-to-body connection that I never knew before was a thing.”
— Mary Gaw

• “After our exchanges I always left filled with gratitude and joy. I remember when your grandson was born. You told everyone about him and would beam from ear to ear while showing us pictures.”
— Denisha Williams

• “Your ability to connect with others on such a deep level is a rare gift. It sets you apart and makes you a beacon of light in a sometimes overwhelming world.”
— Toby Singhania

• “I could have never accomplished my health or career goals without you. You helped me believe in myself and make a commitment to caring for my body. These things I never knew about until I met you. Watching and learning from your example, I’m a better leader, friend, mentor, and competitor. You were magic in my life.”
— Jane Stricker

• “I’ll always remember the effort and care you showed for those of us who were far from ‘Star Athletes.’ You were so kind and kindness in everyday life if the truest way to love one’s neighbor.”
— Bob Merrill

• “Every time I enter the fitness center I picture you in my mind. It will never be the same without you. You were the leader and bright-shining face of the staff for many years. You were an inspiration for me to show up. You also became my friend and confident. All those things are priceless.”
— J. Tracey Rogers

• “Can you believe it? Two damn Yankees end up in Houston. We first met in 1983 – so young, living life to the fullest hitting every happy hour and party we could find. As the years passed and our careers grew, bringing more responsibilities and a mix of bosses (some great, some not so great) we always had plenty of laughs and we formed unbreakable bonds. Through it all we could always count on each other. Our friendship stood the test of time.”
— Taryn Hodella

• “Simply stated, your passion in life was to serve others in the most selfless form and with exceedingly high competency and effectiveness. You are one of the most decent individuals I have ever met. If I can achieve a faction of what you have done in enriching other people’s lives, I will be a happy man.”
— Hans Vaziri, PhD

• “Your strength, kindness and wisdom left a lasting impression on me. I aspire to be like you — as a leader, mentor, and source of strength to others. One day, I hope to be in a position to guide and uplift people the way you have. Leading with the same compassion and grace that defines you. Your presence is felt even in your absence which speaks volumes about you. Thank you for being exactly who you are — a light to so many.”
— Lauren Dufrene

• “Your encouragement, direction and coaching were invaluable when I competed in my first mini-triathlon. It was overwhelming to train so many days — I was pushing past my own beliefs about what I could do physically and mentally. The things you taught along the way enabled me to manage other events in my life. The ripple effect from one person helping another.”
— Becky Nickell

• “You are and always will be a legend to me. I met you when I was young and impressionable — you became my role model for what a successful woman should be. You were my rock and building block in so many ways — as mentor, problem-solver, therapist, comedian and constant cheerleader. Having someone like you in my corner felt like having the wind (and sometimes a hurricane) at my back. Thanks for showing me the way.”
— Christa Davis

• “You helped me through two hip replacements and a bout with cancer. You took me from the very bottom, helped me get walking again, back to exercising and really emotionally held my hand through radiation and chemo treatments. Your work, thoughts and prayers helped me to survive.”
— Glenn McMaster

• “You are a true warrior — ready to put your amour on for the challenges that life throws at you. At the same time — a beautiful and kind woman. Down to earth and with a passion to fulfill your duty with an eagerness to be pleasant, fair and friendly.”
— Patty Vasquez

• “I’m a believer that God puts people in our lives to be there for specific times as needed. What a difference you have made in my life! You got me on the right path on exercising, eating, and dropping some-needed weight. You are truly a selfless person. I hope I was good a friend as you have been to me.”
— Ava Holland

• “There’s no doubt you made an impact on my life. I learned so much from you over the years — about having a positive outlook and being thankful and grateful even for the little things in life. Your departure leaves a void that cannot be filled.”
— Carlos Thoma

• “You are such as gifted person with an incredible wealth of knowledge and experience. Your love for what you did shone through. It was evident in the way you took care of your wellness staff — providing them with excellent leadership.”
— Allison Van Natter

• “Your family has always been your greatest pride and joy. I loved seeing their photos. You are one of the most amazing, authentic, beautiful and loving people I know. I’ll always cherish our friendship.”
— Cheryl Opper