Sheila (Julia) Patricia Cassidy
(née Kirby)

Sheila Cassidy, age 83, formerly Knockburren, Lixnaw and Belle Harbor, New York, beloved wife of Thomas Cassidy (Tommie), entered into eternal life on June 11, 2017. In addition to her devoted husband of 50 years, Sheila will be lovingly remembered by her daughters; Mary Theresa Kennedy (David “Dave"); Veronica Marie Barry (John “Jay”); and Sheila Cassidy,  as well as her cherished grandchildren, Christina, Patrick, Kiera, Cassidy, Clare, Michael and Julia.

Sheila is survived by her sister, Sr. Rita (Mary Teresa) Kirby, brothers Timothy Joseph and Michael Kirby. She is predeceased by her brother Patrick Vincent and her adored nephew, Sean. She is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Lena Bannon, Ann and Pauline Kirby, as well as many nieces and nephews. She will be missed by her many friends and neighbors.

After Sheila immigrated to Rockaway Beach, New York, she married Tommie Cassidy on October 29th, 1966 at St. Francis de Sales in Belle Harbor. Over the years, she enjoyed frequent visits home to see her parents, Julia and Patrick and her husband’s family in Blacklion, County Cavan.

A selfless and loving wife, mother, and grandmother, Sheila’s greatest joy was in helping others. She helped countless other immigrants get settled and gain meaningful employment in the New York area. She was a very devout Catholic, a member of The Sodality of Our Lady,“Children of Mary.” She was always ready to; extend a helping hand, share a warm meal, offer a kind word or “storm the heavens” with her most fervent prayers. She welcomed many babies into God’s family with her beautiful hand-crochet Christening blankets.

The Funeral Mass will be offered on Friday, at 9:45 a.m. at St. Francis de Sales R.C. Church 129-16 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Belle Harbor, NY 11694, 718-634-6464. Interment will follow Mass, Calvary Cemetery 4902 Laurel Hill Blvd. Woodside, NY, 11377.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be directed to: Central Association of the Miraculous Medal, Eastern Province USA Vincentians 500 E. Chelten Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19144 Phone: (215) 713-2400.