Shiela Lynn (Ham) McCormick

Sheila Lynn Ham McCormick, 72, passed away peacefully, surrounded by family, on September 27, 2024, following a brave and graceful battle with Glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer. Born on October 11, 1951, in Monroe, LA, Sheila lived a life full of love, adventure, and joy, always guided by her adoration of family and generous spirit.

Along with her devotion to her family, Sheila's heart found its home in Montana, especially in the breathtaking beauty of Glacier National Park, where she welcomed countless friends and family to share in her love for nature. Summers spent exploring trails, marveling at Avalanche Lake, and enjoying the simple pleasures of Whitefish, MT, became treasured memories for all who joined her.

As an elementary school teacher, Sheila devoted 39 years to shaping the minds and hearts of her students. As a reading specialist, she ignited a love of learning in countless children, and her compassion extended beyond the classroom, forever influencing the lives of those she taught.

Beyond her professional life, Sheila’s creativity knew no bounds—whether knitting, weaving, painting, or basket-making, she found joy in creating beauty with her hands. Her love of art was only rivaled by her passion for travel. Whether she was wandering the museums of France, exploring the rainforests of Costa Rica, or visiting her children and grandchildren in England and Mozambique, Sheila embraced every adventure with the family motto: "Quanta la Gusta"—What an adventure!

On family hikes, Sheila had a unique way of capturing everyone's attention. “Everyone stop!” she’d call out, “Look at me... now, check out this flower!” Her infectious enthusiasm for the simple beauty of creation is a gift she passed on to her loved ones.

Sheila McCormick was preceded in death by her parents, Oberlin Joseph Ham, Jr., Anna Lois Sackett Ham, and her brother, Michael Joseph Ham. She is survived by her brothers, Daniel Kevin Ham (wife Merritt "Chappie" Ham) and James Kelly Oberlin Ham; sister-in-law, Claudia Rebecca Ham; her children, David Patrick McCormick (spouse Elizabeth Rives McCormick), Laura Michelle McCormick (partner Michele Lira Lopes) and Sarah Lynn McCormick Angell (spouse Anthony Ryan Angell); her beloved grandchildren, AnnaLynn Mae Angell, Eva Rives McCormick, Lily Grace Angell, Annie Lavenia McCormick, Esther Rose Angell, and Ryan Daniel Woods Angell, along with many others whose lives were touched by her kindness and generosity.

In memory of Sheila, we celebrate a life overflowing with creativity, love, and boundless adventure. Her legacy lives on in every stitch she knitted, every place she explored, and every heart she touched. We find peace in knowing Sheila has been welcomed home, redeemed by God’s grace, where her next great adventure awaits.

Quanta La Gusta!

Arrangements by Arkansas Cremation, 10515 W Markham St, Suite B1, Little Rock, Arkansas 72205. If you would like to leave a message of condolence to the family, you may do so using the Guestbook section.

www.arkansascremation.com