Shelia Gerard, 66, of Franklin, NC, passed away on August 24, 2006.

A native of Brooklyn, New York, she was the daughter of the late Louis and Rita Gubnitsky Gerard. She was preceded in death by a brother, Stanley Gerard. Shelia was the executive director of the YMCA in South Florida from 1979-1990. Champion for accessibility for people with disabilities in all of WNC. Friend of Bill W. for 40 years and loved by many. She was a member of the Macon County Art Association. She was a mother, friend, companion and crone. A lover of all animals and horses. Shelia was the most joyful person and spread that joy to others. She will be truly missed.

She is survived by a daughter, Lori Fletke of Orlando, FL.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 3 p.m. Tuesday, August 29, in the Chapel of Macon Funeral Home.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the Cashiers Area Humane Society, 200 Gable Street, Cashiers, NC 28717.

Macon Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.

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