PERRIS, CALIF. – Sheila Kay Oliver, 66, formerly of
Wellsville, entered into the waiting arms of Jesus on Friday (March 1, 2019)
following a courageous battle with cancer.
Sheila was born on March 13, 1952 in Wellsville to Ralph and
Geraldine “Geri” (Smith) Hills. She was a 1970 graduate of Wellsville Central
School. On Nov, 28, 1972, in Las Vegas, N.V. she married the love of her life,
Paul Oliver, who survives.
Her spiritual journey began in 1973 through the impact of a
movie, “A Thief in the Night” and culminated in her giving her heart to Jesus
through the reading of the family Bible. Her husband joined her on that journey
in 1977 through her witness and accepting her invitation to attend the church
next door.
Sheila devoted her life to the raising and homeschooling of
her three children. She also played a very active role in church ministry. She
was a worship leader for 35 years where she utilized her talents for the Lord
in writing and composing worship songs. She co-pioneered with her husband the
founding of Gavlin Hills Community Church in Gavlin, Calif., Beth Sincha Church
in Riverside , Calif. and Shiloh Messianic Congregation Church in Crestline,
Calif. and also in Cali Mesa, Calif.
In addition to her husband, Paul, Sheila is survived by
three children, Jesse Paul Oliver of Park City, Utah, Jolene (Jeremy) Burdick
and Jonah (Brenda) Oliver, both of Flagstaff, Ariz.; her father, Ralph Hills of
Wellsville; two sisters, Janet Wesche O’Loughlin and Carole Rich, both of
Calif.; two brothers, Brian Hills and Alan Hills, both of Wellsville; five
grandchildren, Ezra Grace Burdick , Noah Burdick, Sadie Oliver, Reese Oliver
and Silas Oliver; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
In addition to her mother, Geri Hills, she was predeceased
by a brother, Kevin Hills.
Sheila wasn’t afraid of anything. She was willing to attempt
anything for the Lord and with her friendly outgoing personality, she easily
made many friends. An example of this was the Christian Temple Coffee Hour she
started years ago and continued for many, many years.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday (April 20) at
3:00 p.m. at Grace United Church in Wellsville with Rev. Carol Stewart of the
St. John’s Episcopal Church officiating.
Local arrangements are under the direction of Baker-Swan
Funeral Home in Wellsville. Online condolences may be offered at www.baker-swan.com.
Memorial contributions in Sheila’s name may be made to
Allegany County Cancer Services, Attn.: Lori Ballengee, 100 South Highland
Ave., Wellsville, NY 14895 or to Grace United Church, 289 N. Main St.,
Wellsville, NY 14895.
