Sheila Ruth Nelson, age 69, of Sikeston, was united with her beloved parents at her heavenly home on the morning of Tuesday, October 4, 2022.

She was born April 15, 1953, in Poplar Bluff, MO, and after graduating from Poplar Bluff Schools, went on to attend Arkansas State University where she earned her B.A. degree in Social Work.  Sheila began her career with the Department of Social Services in Arkansas and retired from the Missouri Department of Social Services after 40 years of service.   She trained foster parents and assisted multitudes of foster children and foster parents.  Helping children from shattered homes, jumping on a cruise ship for a getaway, and enjoying times with her friends were the things that made her happy.

Sheila was the last surviving child and only daughter of the late Harry Lavern Nelson and Leatha Jewel Janis Nelson of Poplar Bluff, who were both tragically killed February 28, 1993, when a truck struck their vehicle head on.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by brothers, Donald Nelson, Dr. James L. Nelson, and Forrest Janis

She is survived by nieces and nephews and their families, and a multitude of friends.

Graveside services will be conducted at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, October 15, 2022, at Memorial Gardens Cemetery in Poplar Bluff, where Sheila will be laid to rest next to her father and mother.

Friends may then gather for a time of remembrance from 2:00 p.m. until 3:00 p.m., Monday, October 17, 2022, at the McMikle Funeral Home in Sikeston.

Arrangements are under the direction of the McMikle Funeral Home of Sikeston.

Online condolences may be shared at www.mcmiklefuneralhome.com.