Obituary: Sheila “Zacharek” Jean Evans

Sheila Jean (Zacharek) Evans, 74, formerly of Prescott, Arizona and fondly known as Beaner, passed away Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016 following a courageous battle with cancer. Her strength, humor and lust for life never faded and was always in search of travel and adventure.

Sheila enjoyed skiing all over the world with her many friends in the Phoenix Ski Club. She served as president of the club and was awarded Life Time Membership for the many efforts she gave.

A graduate of Nottingham High School, Syracuse, New York and a career teacher, Sheila earned her Bachelor’s Degree from SUNY New Paltz and then two Master’s Degrees. An elementary and special education teacher in New York, Minnesota and Arizona, Sheila taught with a dedication to her profession and a devotion to her students.

Sheila was unselfishly loving and loyal to her family and friends. She is survived by her sisters, Sharon Wheatley (Bob) of Syracuse, New York, Shirley Hunter (David Smith), of Albany, New York and Sandra Stanek (Mel) of Covington, Georgia; her niece, Denise Hunter Novak of Madison, New Jersey; and nephews David Wheatley of Easton, Connecticut, Mark Wheatley of Syracuse, New York, Jason Hayer of Jersey City, New Jersey, Eric Hayer of Boonton, New Jersey; and 11 great nieces and nephews.

The family extends their deepest appreciation to her long-time friends, Jerry Evans and Nancy Goldsmith. Sheila spent the last two months of her life enjoying the beautiful views of Chesapeake Bay with Nancy as her caregiver in Dames Quarter, Maryland. And special thanks to the caregivers of Coastal Hospice & Palliative Care, Salisbury, Maryland and private duty staff that gave Sheila much comfort.

A celebration of Sheila’s life will be in upstate New York at Mohonk Mountain House in New Paltz, New York, one of her favorite spots, as a Springtime memorial and will be announced at a later date. In addition, a life celebration memorial will be in Prescott, Arizona in April.

In her memory, contributions may be made to Coastal Hospice & Palliative Care, P.O. Box 1773, Salisbury, MD 21802-1773.

Information provided by survivors.