Obituary: Sheila Grace Lamell

It is with heavy hearts and deep sadness that we announce the passing of Sheila Grace Lamell, 78 of Essex Junction. She was a beloved mother, devoted wife, and cherished member of her community.

Born in Jersey City, NJ, to Cornelius and Catherine [Jennings] O’Keeffe, Sheila grew up with her seven siblings in the family home until she met the love of her life, Ron Lamell. They married on April 5th, 1964 and moved to Ron’s home state of Vermont embarking on a remarkable journey together.

Their bond was one that was built on a foundation of devoted affection, mutual support and an unwavering commitment to each other. Sheila took great pride in the success of the Lamell Lumber Corporation, the sawmill originally owned by her late husband’s family which Ronald built back up to the amazing company it is today. While being an extraordinary homemaker, she used her bookkeeping & management skills in the sales & rental aspects of the business. Her genuine interest and involvement contributed to the prosperity and growth of the company, ensuring that the Lamell family’s legacy would continue to thrive for generations to come.

Beyond her dedication to her family and the business, her family gatherings & holiday dinners were legendary. Sheila reveled in the breathtaking beauty of the fall season. Whenever she hosted an “O’Keeffe Girl Cousins Reunion” she planned it so that they could witness the breathtaking colors of Vermont’s foliage. She was often crowned the “Jacks” champion on the last night of the reunion! Sheila was a perfect hostess to all her guests. Good food & beverages were always plentiful at the Lamell home. While some guests played in the swimming pool Sheila would be giving tours of the mill in her golf cart.

One of Sheila’s greatest treasures was her 1957 Ford Thunderbird. She was so excited to have it painted a brilliant turquoise once it was restored. Another favorite vehicle of hers was their luxurious motor home in which they travelled across the entire continental United States, often stopping along the way to visit family & friends. Sheila & Ron made happy memories for their children & later with their 4 grandchildren on their many trips to Disney World and other parks around the country.

Sheila was a devout Catholic who attended Sunday Mass regularly and prayed the rosary each day. Her faith sustained her & provided comfort throughout her life.

She is survived by her sons; Ronald Lamell Jr. and Keith Lamell, her brothers; Peter O’Keeffe and Thomas O’Keeffe [Nancy], her sisters Marilyn Madden[Bob] and Noreen Gibney. Her grandchildren; Chelsea Ulrich, Ethan Ulrich, Kyle Lamell and Wyatt Lamell and family friends; Gail & Todd Lamos along with many other friends and family.

She is predeceased by her beloved husband, Ronald Lamell Sr., her daughter; Michele Ann Lamell, her parents; Cornelius and Catherine O’Keeffe, her sister, Sharon Moore & brothers, Connie O’Keeffe & Bill O’Keeffe.

Visiting Hours will be held on Tuesday, December 5th, 2023, from 5:00pm to 7:00pm at Minor Funeral Home and Cremation Center. A funeral mass of Christian burial will take place the next day, Wednesday, December 6th, 2023, at St. Pius X Catholic Church beginning at 11:00am with a committal service immediately following at St. Luke’s Catholic Cemetery.

Source: Burlington Free Press