Shelia Ann Slater

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Shelia Ann Slater at the age of 81 on December 31, 2024.

Born on November 2, 1943 in Spruce Pine, NC to Hazel and Garfield Harrison, Shelia is survived by three daughters Donna, Debbie (Marc) and Karen, son (Her rock) Albert Joseph Slater II (Diane), sisters Kay Ashton (Joe) and Micky Kaylor, grandchildren Christine, Robert (Macy), Ryan (Marina), Reagan, Reese, Mario and Nicholas Slater, nieces and nephews Tammy Rand (Ben), Mandy Massey (Chris), Terry Gibson (Dwayne) and Shane Cochrane (Karen), great-nieces and nephews Ashton, Ella Kate, Harper, Tessa, Burton, Jacob and Alex, and her cousin Randy ("FavoRITE") Goble (John).

Shelia was pre-deceased by her sister Jean Green (Bill).

By the time Shelia was merely 26 years old, she had four children, including twin girls. She was married to Robert L. Slater, subsequently divorced, and never re-married. After raising her children in Miami, Florida she went to work in the insurance field until she retired and moved back to Gastonia. Shelia was an incredible seamstress and enjoyed embroidery. She took great pride in her appearance and never left the house without looking neat and put-together. She loved to shop and buy things for others, a true generous spirit. But most of all she loved spending time with family and friends, laughing and singing. She was a fan of classic country music through and through. Shelia celebrated every holiday, was always up for a party, but Christmas was her favorite. She transformed her home into Santa's Workshop every year without fail, including this year. And never missed a Carolina Panthers party!

She genuinely cared about the people in her life, and touched the lives of many with her kind, gentle manner. She truly empathized with the struggles of others and would help out in any way she could. She will be missed by all who knew and loved her.