After a long struggle with Parkinson’s Disease, David Ralph Sheffield, age 81, of Flora, Illinois, passed away Wednesday, December 13, 2017, at Flora Gardens Care Center with his loving wife at his side.  Born February 22, 1936, in St. Louis, Missouri, David grew up in the Tower Grove area and attended Roosevelt High School.  He entered the Army at age 18, completing two years of service in Germany.

     David earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southeast Missouri State University in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. He taught high school social studies in rural Alaska for thirteen years but spent most of his professional career as a social worker.  He loved to travel and looked back on his thirteen years living in Alaska and his twelve years living on Whidbey Island in Washington State as the best years of his life.  He especially cherished his daily walks on the island beaches with his beloved dogs.

     David married Barbara (Willis) Sheffield in 1979. He is survived by his wife: Barbara Sheffield of Flora, along with his sisters: Wilma Spicer and Betty June Moore, and his brother: Steve Sheffield, all of St. Louis, Missouri.  He was preceded in death by his parents: Ralph and Alice (Stagner) Sheffield; and two nephews: Joseph and Michael Moore.

     Dave will be greatly missed for his raucous laughter and sense of humor, his wonderful smile, and his kindness and generosity to others.  Though he will be gone, his memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved him.

     A memorial service with interment following will be held at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery in St. Louis at a later date.  Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora.  Memorial donations may be given to the local D.A.V. and these will be accepted through the funeral home.