Sheila Donnell Devine

Sheila Donnell Devine, age 81, of New Bedford, Massachusetts, peacefully passed away on Monday, June 15, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family. Born on June 20, 1944, Sheila devoted her life to caring for others, leaving a lasting legacy in both her profession and personal relationships.

Sheila was the beloved wife of Richard Paul Devine, with whom she shared many cherished years. She was the dear daughter of the late Anthony Francis and Mary Catherine (O’Donnell) Francis, whose memory she honored throughout her life. In her youth, Sheila excelled academically and received accolades for her talent in swimming and horseback riding. She had a profound love of the arts, music, and most of all gardening. She shared her passions with the people she loved the most, fostering a deep appreciation for these interests in her children and grandchildren through stories told, songs sung, and heartfelt lessons on stewardship of the land. Late spring days spent beneath the cherry blossom tree, weeding flower beds, or tilling soil for cucumber plants left lasting impressions on the lives of those she poured her heart into, and those moments have left a legacy of beauty and quiet grace with those who knew her best.

Her professional career was marked by compassion and dedication. Sheila served with distinction as a nurse at St. Luke’s Hospital, where her gentle care brought comfort and relief to countless patients. Later, she extended her talents to the Blaire House Alzheimer’s Unit, and then to Brandon Woods of New Bedford, providing essential support and kindness to those affected by this challenging condition. Her commitment to nursing exemplified her generous spirit and her unwavering desire to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. Sheila’s enduring spirit and loving nature will be deeply missed by all who knew her.

Sheila was preceded in death by her beloved daughter, Angela Stacey Mello. She is survived by her husband, Richard Devine, and her devoted son and daughter-in-law, Joel Mello & Tammy Mello of Acushnet. In addition Sheila is survived by her grandchildren: Amanda Creador & her husband Joseph Creador, Brittany Mello, Tyler Mello & his wife Jacquelyn Mello; and her great-grandchildren: Kaeden daCruz (Grace Burgess), Lotus Beck, Jayda Mello, Joeson Creador, Rhodes Creador, & Cannan Carpenter. Sheila also had the joy of meeting the newest addition to her progeny: her great-great-grandson, Henry Francis daCruz. Sheila was also deeply loved by her step children and grandchildren who, although distance separated them, were always near to her heart.

Private funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Perry Funeral Home, located at 111 Dartmouth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740.