Sheila Marie Wasson, 79, of West Burlington, died Friday, January 30, 2026, at Wapello Specialty Care in Wapello.
She was born September 30, 1946, in Grinnell. She was the daughter of Max Smith and Norma (Norman), and Neale Stevens.
She was a 1965 graduate of Mason City High School.
Sheila worked as a teacher for Des Moines County Head Start for 30 years. She helped hundreds of children begin their educational path. The Burlington area would frequently read articles in the Hawk Eye by reporter Bobby Wilson, about Sheila and her class. Upon retirement, she worked part time in the Burlington School System.
She was a member of Harmony Bible Church. In her younger years, Sheila enjoyed spending time with her friends, lying in the sun at Lake Geode, hanging out at North Hill Tap, and being on the river. As her family grew, Sheila enjoyed every moment with her children and grandchildren. She loved attending their activities and never missed a dance recital.
Survivors include her son, Thomas V. (Karen) Heath, Jr. of Oxford, IA; daughter, Shannon (Jeff) Reynolds of Burlington; seven grandchildren, Brendon (Brittany) Reynolds, Alycia Eakins, Madisyn (Caden) Reynolds, Reagan (Quinten) Heath, Liam Heath, Tyron (Paige) Mack, and Josh Eakins; 10 great-grandchildren, Blane Eakins, Owen Eakins, Brooklyn Reynolds, Lucas Reynolds, Myles Mack, Edwin Weyls, Roran Weyls, Kylo Mack, Piper Reynolds, and Nova Mack; and one niece and two nephews.
She was preceded in death by her father; mother and step-father; husband; sister, Hedy Moore, and a sister in infancy.
Cremation has been entrusted to the care of Prugh Crematory.
A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established in her name. Funds will be used to purchase items for children in the Head Start program.