Sheila Caskey

Sheila R. Caskey, 74, of Cape Girardeau died Saturday, April 13, 2013, at Saint Francis Medical Center in Cape Girardeau.

She was born Feb. 13, 1939, in Chicago to Raymond B. and Grace F. Meadows Caskey.

Sheila received a bachelor of science degree in education and master's of science degree from Illinois State University at Normal and a Ph.D. from Purdue University.

She was a professor at Southeast Missouri State University for 33 years, 19 of those as dean of graduate studies and extended learning, retiring in August 1998.

She was the founding president of the board of trustees at Southeast Hospital College of Nursing and Health Sciences.

She was a past member of the Higher Learning Commission and NCATE review teams, a former member of the Cape Girardeau Library board of trustees and Cape Girardeau Parks and Recreation Advisory Committee, along with having served as a Community Council board member.

She served several years on the Lake Perry Lot Owners board of trustees.

Sheila was the author of numerous scholarly articles published at the state and national levels. She also did volunteer work for AARP as a tax preparer.

Survivors include a brother, Michael Caskey of Lincoln, Ill.; four nieces; eight great-nieces and great-nephews; and a very special friend, Margaret A. Theobald of Cape Girardeau.

She was preceded in death by her parents.

Ford and Sons Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

A private memorial service will be in her hometown of Lawndale, Ill., at a later date.

Memorial contributions may be given to Southeast Hospital College of Nursing and Health Sciences or Southeast Missouri State University Department of Nursing.

Online condolences may be made at www.fordandsonsfuneralhome.com.