Joan P. Sheffield, of 248 Enfield Main Road, passed away at Cayuga Medical Center on Monday, November 23, 2009 at the age of 78.

Born on October 3, 1931 in Montour Falls, Joan was the daughter of the late Clayton and Mabel N. (Bullard) Purdy. She grew up on her family farm at 248 Enfield Main Road, assisting in the operation of the farm. Joan attended a one room schoolhouse near her home in Enfield until eighth grade. She then attended Ithaca High School graduating in 1949. Joan volunteered as a plane spotter at Cornell during the Korean Conflict. Then on November 12, 1955, Joan married the love of her life, Charles Sheffield. Together they raised their three daughters at their home in Enfield.  Joan worked for the Tompkins County Department of Social Services for 37 years as a Senior Typist, where she developed many enduring friendships.

In the late 1960’s, Joan and her family began camping. As their love for camping grew, they joined the “39ers” and the “Top of the Hill” camping clubs. Joan enjoyed friendships around the campfire, playing cards and dominoes. Her dish-to-pass recipes were a favorite among fellow campers. When Joan was not camping, she could often be found creating ceramic keepsakes with her children.

Joan was a very giving and loving soul, as was shown by the many hand knitted slippers and plastic canvas needlework gifts given to loved ones in her life. She also shared part of her big heart and warm spirit through her love of letter writing and card sending. Joan was a supporter of the Enfield Volunteer Fire Company Ladies Auxiliary in the 1970’s-‘80’s during the EVFC carnival years.  

Joan’s fondest memories were times spent with her family, especially adventures with her grandchildren. She and her husband, Charles, celebrated 50 years of marriage in 2005 with an open house at the Ulysses Historical Society. Together they enjoyed square dancing at the Old Red Barn in Elmira, and taking trips to Cape Cod and Florida.

Joan is survived by her husband of 54 years, Charles; three daughters, Suzanne (David)Reynolds of Trumansburg, Karen French (Jeff Cornell) of Watkins Glen, and Catherine Lopez of Enfield; six grandchildren, John, Sarah, and Heather French, Benjamin and Megan Reynolds, and Michael Paolangeli; great-grandson, Aiden Nichols; sister, Mildred (Alfred) Eddy of Enfield; niece, Nancy Eddy of Ithaca; nephew, Stephen (Gail) Eddy of Enfield; great-niece Elyse Eddy; and her beloved dog, Sugar; and many nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her niece, Carol Eddy. 

In keeping with the family’s wishes there will be no calling hours. A Memorial Service will be held at 1:00 pm on Monday, November 30, 2009 at the Ness-Sibley Funeral Home, 23 South St., Trumansburg, with the Pastor Dennis Christiansen officiating. Immediately following the service, a reception will be held at the Ulysses Historical Society, 39 South St., Trumansburg. Prayers of committal will be private.

The family asks those who wish to make a contribution in Joan’s memory to kindly consider the Enfield Volunteer Fire Dept., 172 Enfield Main Rd., Ithaca, NY 14850. The family wishes to support the Fire Police as well as the Rescue Squad; please be sure to indicate your preference when making a contribution.