Gilbert James Sheffield, Jr. of 41 Oslo Street, Mystic passed away Tuesday, October 28 at Lawrence and Memorial Hospital in New London after a brief illness. Gilbert was born on July, 24, 1955 in New London, CT to Gilbert J. Sheffield, Sr and Dorothy L. Burtiss. He is predeceased by both of his parents.
Gilbert was employed at Stop and Shop in Groton for 23 years as a carriage attendant. He was a member of ARC of New London County (Association for Retarded Citizens) and participated in the Special Olympics since the 1970’s. He won numerous metals and ribbons for his participation in the Special Olympics Track and Field events. Gilbert was a an avid fan of all Boston teams - Red Sox, the Patriots, the Celtics and even the Bruins. He loved to dance at the ARC socials on Friday nights and play basketball and baseball with the ARC teams. He took his job as big brother to sister and brother very seriously. He took very special care of his pet cat Midnight.
He is survived by his sister Karen L. Sheffield of Mystic and brother Stephen T. Sheffield of Groton, Aunts, Binty Brown of Waterford, Fereline Thompson of New York, cousins, Charles Groce of Hartford, Stephanie Collier of Waterford, Arthur and Floretta Sheffield of Mystic; and many cousins and close friends.
His family will greet relatives and friends at The Dinoto Funeral Home, 17 Pearl Street, Historic downtown Mystic on Monday 6-8pm. A Funeral Eucharsit will be celebrated at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Mystic on Tuesday at 11am. Private burial will be in Elm Grove Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like donations to be made to the ARC of New London County, 125 Sachem Street, Norwich, CT 06360.
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