Sheila Nancy Christiana

Sheila Nancy Christiana, age 76, of Pittsfield died at Berkshire Medical Center on Thursday, August 31, 2023 with her loving family at her side.  We know she’s in Heaven with Elvis right now, dancing and celebrating with all the members of her family who have gone before her.

Sheila was born in Pittsfield on September 24, 1946 a daughter of the late Francis Vernon and Mary Grace Carderella Lapp. She was a graduate of Pittsfield High School and she proudly earned her Licensed Practical Nursing certificate as a part of her high school education.

It came naturally for Sheila to take care of those around her. Both in her role as an LPN, which she did for over 30 years at Hillcrest Hospital, and in her role as a wife, mother, grandmother and later great grandmother. She was a strong-willed woman and had no problem letting her feelings be known. Sheila was open and honest with people, and she was often the first to tell you even the hardest things to hear.

Sheila adored her family, especially her grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved Elvis and decorated for all holidays. Her favorite was Christmas and she ensured that all special meals were a place where all people were welcome. She had a big heart and never let anyone around her go hungry.

Sheila married Robert James Christiana on November 23, 1977 at St. Marks Church. This coming Thanksgiving they would have celebrated 46 wonderful years together.

She and Robert were members of St. Marks Church for many years. She was a member of the choir there and she loved to sing. For the last 25 years they have been communicants at St. Joseph’s Church and she was very involved in parish functions. 

One to always keep busy, Sheila enjoyed crafts, especially cross stitch and knitting, and also loved jigsaw puzzles and reading. In her younger years, Sheila has beautiful vegetable gardens and looked forward to her harvests.

In addition to her husband Robert, Sheila is survived by their children and spouses, Mark and Katrina Christiana of Dalton, Lisa and Bobby Trapnell of South Carolina, Shaunna Christiana of Pittsfield and James and Julie Christiana of Pittsfield. She leaves 14 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren, her sister Maureen (John) Lapp and her dear friends, Sandy Wheat and Pamela Todd Dothan.

A celebration of Sheila’s life will be held at a later date.