Sheila K. Asklund (Donovan), a woman of boundless creativity, faith, humor, and devotion to her family, passed away peacefully in Gloucester, MA on October 25 at 87 years of age. Born in Quincy, MA, Sheila spent her formative years in Dorchester, Allston, and Quincy, graduating from Quincy High School and the Rogers Modeling School of Boston. In her twenties, she applied her meticulous nature as a bookkeeper for St. Anthony’s Shrine in Boston. A woman of artistic flair, she worked as a floral arranger for Winston’s in the Back Bay, and had a keen eye for interior design, bringing beauty into every space she touched.

During the 1950s, Sheila was a prominent local actress who frequently performed with community theater groups across the South Shore of Massachusetts, including the Quincy Players. Her memorable performances spanned classic productions such as Gaslight (Angel Street), You Can’t Take It With You, Arsenic and Old Lace, An Inspector Calls, and Our Town.

Brought together by a shared love for the stage and song, Sheila married her beloved husband, Charles E. Asklund, in 1963 with whom she raised their three children. Sheila embraced motherhood wholeheartedly, dedicating herself to creating a warm and loving home for her husband and children. Whether she was encouraging her children to discover their musical talents or enthusiastically cheering from the sidelines at Pop Warner football, Little League games, tennis matches, and ballet recitals, she was always their biggest supporter. A tough cookie who loved to get a laugh, her encouragement ranged from “Yes you can!” to “Build a bridge and get over it!”

Her dedication extended beyond her own home and into the community. When the Band Boosters organization was first established at Burlington High School, Sheila eagerly became involved, recognizing the importance of supporting not only her own children but all of the young musicians who worked so hard to develop their talents. Keeping true to her strong Catholic faith, Sheila taught CCD to neighborhood children in her home during the 1970s.

After decades as a stay-at-home mother, she returned to the workplace, eventually becoming the Director of Human Resources at Wild Acre Inns, a mental health and residential treatment organization in Arlington, MA.

Sheila loved history, cooking, decorating, astrology, gardening, vacationing on the Cape, and most of all, entertaining friends and family. She was known for a cold, buttery Chardonnay and “a lovely ham.” She will be remembered for her infectious laugh and resilient spirit that have touched the lives of many.

Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to the Edward V. Sullivan Funeral Home during the visiting hours of 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM on Saturday, October 31, 2026. A graveside service will follow in Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to The Home for Little Wanderers ℅ Development Department 72 E. Dedham Street, Boston, MA 02118.