Sheila Dempsey: 8 years of Love and Grace at the Old Rectory Retirement home
At 101, Sheila Davis is a living testament to resilience, love, and the power of memory. Born and raised in Canterbury, she grew up in a strict yet loving home, with her cousin Rita as her closest childhood companion. Though others thought she was spoiled as an only child, Sheila always felt her father was the softer presence in her life.
Sheila’s journey took her from school, where she adored music, to working in a shop before World War II changed everything. Becoming a welder when her workplace transformed into a gun factory was challenging, and she didn’t enjoy the work. After the war, she returned to the shop, where her favorite task was working on the baby linen counter.
Love found Sheila at 17 when she met her husband. They wed in Canterbury Registry Office on a warm day, with Sheila donning a blue dress. Singing, sewing, and knitting became her cherished pastimes, as she embraced a life centered on home rather than travel.
Now residing at the Old Rectory Retirement Home, Sheila has spent 8 years in comfort, surrounded by caring staff who enrich her daily life. She values her appearance and takes pride in always looking her best. With a century of memories behind her, she remains grateful for the people and places that have shaped her incredible life.
A story of quiet perseverance, Sheila Davis embodies the grace of time well lived.



