Margaret Frances Sheehan

Margaret F. Sheehan, 96, a wonderful mother and doting wife, entered our world in 1920, enjoyed a righteous life, endured longevity's ills, and returned to Christ on March 6, 2017. Born and raised in Long Island, NY, she caught the eye of a St Johns' star third baseman, Douglas. They fell in love, were engaged during his Air Corps flight training, and married in 1943. After WWII, they embarked together on a 30 year USAF career. During this journey, she uprooted her household 15 times (by '56, with 7 kids in tow). After retiring, they lived 8 yrs in Florida, 19 yrs in Georgia, and the past 17 yrs in Las Vegas. While she would proudly state her occupation as Homemaker, Margaret was a life-long community volunteer. She was always active in the many Officers' Wives Clubs, and as a devout Catholic, she honored her faith by helping out with the American Red Cross, VA hospitals, Boy Scouts of American, churches, schools, and charities. In Vegas, she weekly volunteered at Spring Valley and San Martin hospitals before her "retirement" at 92. An avid tennis player, golfer, and athlete throughout her life, she played tennis well into her 80s. In Georgia, she sparred weekly with her double's group highlighted by a match against Gladys Knight (remember the Pips?). Always game to view a nearby pro event, her fan enthusiasm flew her to the U.S. and Australian Opens. She relished her time as a tourist. Wherever stationed, she found time to explore the area's cultures. In Germany, she targeted central Europe, and even returned from their tour in '52 via Oceanliner to NY. Along with Doug, she attended numerous reunions of their '49 Weather Group, highlighted by the 40th Anniversary of the Berlin Airlift in Germany. At 90, she took her 3 daughters to Ireland to excite their heritage. Here she confirmed her favorite Toast, POG MO THOIN (a tradition from her Irish grandmother), translates from Gaelic to English as a bit risqué. She treated her family and all she met with humor, respect, and genuine interest. Margaret was highly skilled playing cards and adept at Video Poker. Always ready to have fun, she would sing and dance whenever the music played. She loved the casinos, entertainment, wine, and champagne and was truly the life of every party. And there were lots of them! And Wow could she cook. She was preceded in death by her son, Michael Sheehan; daughter, Eileen Stout; and sister, Joan Verderosa. She is survived by her husband of nearly 74 years, Douglas Sheehan; son and daughter-in-law, Edward and Jean Sheehan; daughter, Margaret M. Sheehan; daughter, Mary Simmons; son, John Sheehan; son, Kevin Sheehan; and niece, Joanne Montanye. 14 Grandchildren and 19 Great Grandchildren. We will toast often this beautiful woman and beloved Matriarch. Sometime in the future, Margaret's life will culminate in a ceremonial service for dual interment. Donations in her memory can be made to Catholic Charities.

Arrangements under the direction of Palm Southwest Mortuary, Las Vegas, NV.