SHARON, Conn.—Sheila Devitt, 82, who opened the first daycare in Kent, passed away on March 7, 2026, in Sharon.
A memorial gathering will be held in her honor at Four Brothers Restaurant in Amenia, N.Y., Saturday, June 20, from 2 to 4 p.m.
All are welcome to attend and celebrate her life.
Born on May 11, 1943, in Yonkers, N.Y., Sheila lived a life defined by her unwavering dedication to education and her compassionate service to others. Her journey in education was as unique as it was inspiring.
Dissatisfied with the limitations of her high school experience, she made the bold decision to leave and pursue her own path. She attended night classes to earn her GED and was later accepted into Faireigh Dickinson University, where she graduated Magna Cum Laude.
Her academic achievements continued when she received a prestigious fellowship to Harvard University, earning a master’s degree in education.
Throughout her life, Sheila devoted herself to the well-being and success of children. Her daycare center in Kent ensured that working parents had a reliable place for their children even on snow days when schools were closed. But her commitment extended beyond daycare; she spent countless hours tutoring children in need, helping them overcome challenges and achieve their goals.
She is survived by her brother, Peter Devitt (Susann); her sister, Dorita Devitt; and her nieces Stacey Devitt (Bill), Kerry Devitt, and Janel (Steve) Heck. She also leaves behind numerous cousins as well as great-nieces and nephews who will cherish her memory. Sheila was predeceased by her father, Edward Peter Devitt, and her mother Dorothea (née Kolb) Devitt.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude Children’s Hospital.
