Albany - Sheila Marilyn Goldberg, 79, passed away peacefully at home on April 19, 2025, after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born on August 2, 1945, Sheila’s life was as bold and spirited as her presence in any room. Larger than life in every sense, she was a beacon of fun, energy, and laughter—always surrounded by friends and loved ones who were drawn to her warmth, quick wit, and infectious joy.

Sheila was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Terrence (Terry) O'Neill, and by her parents, Mildred and Moe Goldberg. She was also previously married to Bill Blumerman, with whom she had two children: Lisa Blumerman (Kevin Deardorff) and Seth Blumerman (Michelle Parent). Sheila’s legacy lives on through them, as well as through her sister, Marcia Jacoby (Robert Jacoby), her cousin, Marla Colarusso (Alan Colarusso), and many extended family members and dear friends whose lives were brighter for having known her.

A proud graduate of Milne High School’s Class of 1963, Sheila went on to attend Chandler School for Women in Boston, Massachusetts. Her career took her to Dr. Douglas Larsen's pediatric practice, where she worked for 26 years—thriving not just as an employee, but as a beloved colleague and friend, leaving an indelible mark on all those she worked with.

A lifelong Albanian, Sheila held a special place in the Albany community. Her magnetic personality and lively spirit were the foundation of a vast circle of close friends. She was a founding member of the Just Us Girls book group, a group that shared not only books but deep friendships, laughter, and countless cherished memories.

Sheila’s passions extended beyond reading—she loved playing Mahjong, where Monday afternoons with her closest friends were filled with friendly competition and laughter. Sheila loved visiting Las Vegas, where she embraced the thrill of the casinos, slot machines, and—true to her nature—was always a winner.

Above all, Sheila was a devoted mother, sister, cousin, and friend. Her ability to fill any room with laughter, love, and warmth was unmatched. She was the life of every party, the heart of every gathering, and the soul of every friendship. Her vibrant presence will be missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her.

The family would like to extend their deepest gratitude to Dr. Shaffer (retired, New York Oncology Hematology), Dr. Motzer of Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and Sheila’s cousin, Dr. Darren Feldman, also of Memorial Sloan Kettering, for their exceptional care, support, and compassion throughout her journey.

A graveside ceremony will be held at Temple Israel Cemetery, 1626 Western Avenue, Wednesday April 23rd at 1:00 pm. Following the funeral, the family invites everyone to Sheila's home at 17 Kensington Place to sit Shiva through Thursday evening.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in memory of Sheila Goldberg to Dr. Motzer’s Kidney Research Fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (http://mskcc.convio.net/goto/Sheila_Goldberg).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

.