Sheila (Osborne) Hayden

FULTON – Sheila (Osborne) Hayden, 89, passed away peacefully on April 8, 2026, leaving behind a legacy of kindness, generosity, and quiet strength.

Born on June 11, 1936, in Fulton, New York, Sheila was the beloved daughter of Mark and Myrtle Osborne. She grew up with a deep appreciation for education earning Salutatorian honors from Fulton High School followed by a bachelor’s degree from Syracuse University and later a master’s degree from SUNY Oswego. She spent more than 30 years as a Business Teacher and Guidance Counselor in Fulton City Schools where she influenced the lives of countless students through her steady dedication and care.

Sheila was an avid traveler. Long car rides as a child with her family to destinations throughout the eastern United States grew into camping trips with her husband and children, including a cross-country journey visiting America’s national parks. Other travels took her to Hawaii and Great Britain. In retirement, she enjoyed winters in Florida and Arizona.

She found joy in life’s simple and meaningful pleasures. She loved baking for family and friends- whether it was a special birthday, a simple thank you for someone’s help, or for donations to local Fulton fundraisers. You could always count on caramel corn at Christmas, fall apple pies, and custom birthday cakes tailored to an individual’s interest. Many cherished hours were spent in the kitchen sharing these traditions with her grandchildren.

Sheila enjoyed playing bridge and was an active member of the Fulton Reading Circle, valuing the camaraderie both activities brought. She also enjoyed walking and was a member of CNY Folksmarch.  She remained active in the community as a member of the Fulton Women’s Club, The Friends of History in Fulton, NY, Inc., and served as secretary for the Mount Adnah Preservation Foundation.

Family was at the heart of Sheila’s life. She is survived by her sister, Audrey Hansen of Bluffton, SC, her sons Greg (Diane) of Boxford, MA, Eric (Amanda) of Liverpool, NY, and Gary (Paula) of Fulton, NY; and eight grandchildren Mark, Derek, Emily, Erika, Novak, Alex, Laura and Kelly who carry forward her values and spirit. Sheila was predeceased by her husband Norman M. Hayden, her long time companion Richard Burke, sister Beverly O’Donnell, and three brothers, Carlyle, Neil, and Ronald Osborne.

Sheila served as an anchor for the family. Whether it was organizing events, or offering guidance during crisis, she provided steady and calm presence with unconditional love to all who sought out her wisdom. These traits continued during her own health challenges, portraying her strength and resilience.

A Celebration of Life will be held graveside at Mt. Adnah Cemetery on June 20, 2026 at 10:00 am, where family and friends will gather to honor and remember her.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Mount Adnah Preservation Foundation, 706 E Broadway, Fulton, NY or JW Pratt House Museum, PO Box 157, Fulton, NY, reflecting Sheila’s lifelong spirit of care and generosity toward others.

Sheila will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her.

James A. Menter Funeral Home has care of arrangements.

Print this entry