Sheila Gale Opala

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sheila Opala, age 74, who entered the arms of her Lord and Savior on October 4, 2023. She will be forever remembered for the love she showed so many, her amazing sense of humor, and dedication to family and friends. Sheila was a loving mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend with the kindest heart. She was preceded in death by her son, Jason Park; parents, Charles and Edith Hayes; sisters, Francis Graves, Sue Dobbs, Faye Newman, Joanne Raham, Ruth Hayes; brothers, Charles (Sonny) Hayes, Carl Hayes, Eddy Hayes, and Tom Hayes. Sheila will be lovingly remembered by her children, Justin Park, Melissa (Scot) Randall; grandchildren, Shane (Dawn) Austin, Kyle (Ashley) Lieckfelt, Kayla (Kalvin) Harrison, Jake (Christuana) Lieckfelt, Nathan (Carissa) Park, Savanna Park, Chloe Park, and Mary Park; bonus grandchildren, Reco (Rachael) Wheatley, Kaylee Finney, Sarah Randall, Jacob Randall; her amazing great-grandchildren who held the most precious space in her heart and brought her so much joy, Hunter, Cameron, Elias, Gannon, Jojo, Marlee, Ava, Blake, Kylo, Ander; siblings, Don (Lynn) Hayes, Jon (Sandy) Hayes, JT (Diana) Hayes, Jerry Hayes; many nieces and nephews. Sheila had a very special connection with her Grand Rapids First Bible Group and her special friends, Judy, Lu, Karen and so many others in the group who helped her navigate her difficult life with Parkinson’s and shared many moments of laughter and fun together. Her love of family and friends reached so many wonderful people. She was a woman of strength and joy that touched each of our lives so profoundly. Through her love and kindness, she cultivated a sense of warmth and belonging that made us all feel cherished and loved. Her gentle spirit and sense of humor will forever echo in our memories. A memorial service to celebrate Sheila’s life will be held on Saturday, November 11, 2023. Location and details will be announced soon. As we navigate through the loss of Sheila may we find peace in the moments we shared, the laughter we enjoyed together, and the love she gave to us all. We are forever grateful for the beautiful memories she gave us.