James Patrick Sheehan's Obituary
Cornelius— It is with heavy hearts that we announce the sudden passing of our beloved James P. Sheehan in an early morning auto accident. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend, who tragically left us after over 76 years of love, laughter, and selfless service to all who knew him.
His absence leaves an irreplaceable void in our hearts, but his legacy will remain with us forever. He is survived by his loving wife of 52 years, Valorie Sheehan (Redlinski); his son Christopher (Stacy), and grandson Gavin; his son James Jr./Jay (Kristen), granddaughter Annabelle, grandson Declan, and granddaughter Maeve; and daughter Laura Pizon (Michael), grandson Patrick, grandson AJ, granddaughter Lila and grandson Kyle, and many other family members and friends who adored him. Though we mourn his passing, we celebrate the incredible life he lived and the joy, love, and faith he shared with us all.
Born into a life of faith, Jim was a devoted Christian whose love for God guided every step of his journey. He lived with kindness, gentleness, and humility, touching the hearts of everyone fortunate enough to know him. He was truly selfless, always putting the needs of others before his own, and his presence brought warmth, wisdom, and compassion to those around him.
Born in Buffalo, New York into a devout Irish family, he was the eldest of 8 children. Jim served honorably in the United States Army where he earned the M-14 Sharpshooter rating and Defense Service Medal before his honorable discharge. He worked as an auditor with Erie County Savings Bank when he met and married his beloved wife Valorie. While working, he continued his studies and earned his Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in Business Administration at SUNY University at Buffalo. He raised his family in West Seneca, NY until he followed a career opportunity with Empire of America Savings Bank to Southern California. After a few years living in Westlake Hills, CA, he returned with his family to West Seneca. He worked as an accountant with Key Bank and completed his career at their main office in Cleveland, OH. Jim and Val enjoyed a decade in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley where they volunteered as trail rangers. Jim was known for his diligence and integrity.
Beyond his professional work, he served his community with equal dedication. He spent years on the school board in West Seneca, striving to improve education and opportunities for future generations. In 2009, Jim and Val relocated to Cornelius, NC to be closer to their children and grandchildren. He poured his heart into supporting his church, providing accounting and bookkeeping support in ministry and helping ensure the safety of the congregation by assisting with security during services.
Jim was not just a man of faith, but a man of action. He loved his country deeply and lived his life with a strong sense of duty, honor, and gratitude. His accomplishments are many, and his life was well-lived. In this moment of loss, these accomplishments do not ease the pain of his passing.
To your eternity in heaven, Jim, His Good and Faithful Servant. Until we meet again.
Celebration of Life will be Saturday, October 26 at 10am at Grace Covenant Church, 17301 Statesville Rd, Cornelius, NC 28031. The Celebration of Life service will be live streamed at https://live.gracecovenant.org/.
In lieu of flowers donations can be made to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society at https://www.lls.org/ or Grace Covenant Church Global Missions.
James Funeral Home of Huntersville, NC is serving the family of Mr. Sheehan and online condolences can be made to jamesfuneralhomelkn.com
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