Obituary of Sheila Eileen Bustamante

 Sheila Bustamante passed peacefully in her St Petersburg home May 22, 2023. She was born and raised in Jamaica, Queens, NY. This is where she married Luis Bustamante and had two daughters. They moved to St Petersburg in 1969 to pursue a business venture. They settled in and had a son. Sheila was now ready to pursue her dream to become a Registered Nurse. She worked to support her own education while raising her three children, earning her nursing degree and graduating in 1976. Sheila worked primarily in private and Home Health Care. She became registrar of a private duty agency and president of the local FNA chapter. She eventually worked as, and retired as, a Home Health Care liaison from St Anthony’s Hospital. Sheila started a gift basket business in her retirement, catering to retirement homes, assisted living facilities and to real estate closings. As a nurse, she wanted to accommodate those who were not able to easily shop, and to offer much needed socialization and independence for the residents. Sheila most recently worked as a volunteer for Meals on Wheels during COVID, where she continued to make a difference in our community.  

      Sheila enjoyed hosting many parties in her homes throughout the years, especially Halloween parties. She loved to create a fun and spooky atmosphere and had her adult friends playing games like kids. She has always loved music, dancing and traveling. Sheila was dancing 5 nights a week when able; swing, blues, Latin, and ballroom. She ran a local tea dance up until a year ago. She frequented live music and theatrical performances. She enjoyed visiting museums and experiencing restaurants with a special interest in any new or unique cuisines. She was a world traveler with a preference for cruising, returning from her 21st and last cruise in April. 

      Sheila was a special soul to all who met her. She had a gift of making people feel at ease. She was an active listener, providing inspiration, wisdom, encouragement, acceptance, and nurturing to those who needed and were open to it. Sheila took in extended family and was a mother figure to many; a generous heart to countless others. Sheila was an engaging storyteller with memorable comical stories from her everyday life experiences. She created fun and excitement—especially when there seemed to be a lack thereof. 

       Her passing was how she wanted; quiet and peaceful in her beautiful home. Sheila adorned her walls and each room with art and artifacts from all over the globe highlighting her travels to many countries. Sheila’s hallway became a shrine to her family and a glimpse through time.The many photos of friends and family throughout her home are a tribute to her love and to those who loved her.

      Sheila had a grace about her and her own style. She had a zest for life and a deep understanding of it. We will miss her immeasurably.

      She  showed us her love, energy and passion for life, and what living truly means. And so, she will continue to be with us as we follow her example, and for that we are grateful.