Obituary: Sheila Ide, 80, Grafton’s first woman selectman

Former Selectman Sheila Ide, who broke gender barriers by becoming the first woman to serve of Grafton’s Board of Selectmen, died January 27 following complications from a long battle with cancer.

Shelia, 80, was honored by the town she loved on November 17, 2021, which was celebrated as “Sheila Ide Day.”

Sheila was born November 1, 1941 in Worcester, daughter of the late Edith (Salem) and William Kelley. Her roots were in the city, but she also lived briefly in Millbury with Reggie before they settled in Grafton where they raised their family and lived for more than 50 years.

While always hard-working, Sheila’s family was her center where she found her greatest joy, and became known as “Mammy” to those who loved her dearly. 

Her work ethic also helped Sheila become a pioneer in the town of Grafton, serving as selectman from 1988 to 2000.Her dedication paid off for her town: as the board’s representative on the town’s Economic Development Committee, notably pushing for the Grafton Commuter Rail Stop, the development of Tufts University’s Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine on the former grounds of Grafton State Hospital, and the creation of CenTech Park on the Grafton/Shrewsbury line.

She leaves her adoring husband of 60 years, Reggie Ide, her sons Stephen Ide and his wife Melissa, Michael Ide and his wife Kassandra, Joe Ide and his wife Stacy, her grandchildren Matthew, Harrison, Kaylee, Nicholas, Alana and her sisters Sally Belisarian and Karen Brosnihan along with several nieces and nephews. 

Funeral services and burial for Sheila will be private at her family’s wishes. 

In lieu of flowers please honor Sheila with a memorial donation to Dana Farber Cancer Institute at www.Danafarber.jimmyfund.org. A Book of Memories to share a special message with Sheila’s family is available online at.RoneyFuneralHome.com.