Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Barclay SHEAKS Obituary
Born in West Bend, Ind., on Oct. 22, 1928, he grew up in Newmarket, Va., in a family that was nurturing and supportive of his talent as an artist. He was a graduate of Richmond Professional Institute (RPI) and received a master's in art from The College of William and Mary. He also received a Doctorate of Humane Letters from Christopher Newport University. He began his career as a teacher and taught at Warwick High School until 1967 when he was asked to start the art department at Virginia Wesleyan College.
He was a generous supporter of the art community, including donating his paintings on a regular basis to support scholarship programs for children. He was a member and supporter of the Newport News Public Art Foundation. He never turned down an opportunity to lend his time and talent to help benefit local arts programs.
In addition to his talents as a painter and sculptor, he wrote eight books on painting and poetry. He also hosted an art instruction show on PBS called "Acrylic Painting with Barclay Sheaks."
Barclay Sheaks will be remembered for his passion for art and his dedication to his students.
"Sheaks lives art," said Phil Guilfoyle, assistant professor of art at Virginia Wesleyan College, at the time of Sheaks' retirement in 2005.
He was predeceased by his parents, Eugenia Rice and Earl Leroy Sheaks; and first wife, Edna Sheaks.
He is survived by his wife, Deborah Sheaks; son, Owen J. Sheaks and wife, Cristina, of Reston, Va.; stepdaughter, Heather Clark of Hampton, Va.; and stepson, Allen Laine IV of Santa Cruz, Calif.; sister, Sylvia Moore of Harrisonburg, Va.; four grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
A memorial service will be held 2 p.m. Sunday, April 18, at the Ferguson Center for the Arts, officiated by Dr. R. Furman Kenney. Following the service, a reception will be held at the Ferguson Center.
In lieu of flowers, donations to the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, William Black Medical Building, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center, 710 W. 168th St., New York, NY 10032-9982, would be greatly appreciated.
Peninsula Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements. View and post condolences on our online guestbook at dailypress.com/guestbooks.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Barclay SHEAKS
Dee Heslop Van Houten
April 9, 2019
Barclay inspired me and fired up the passion that I have for creating art. He was my most favorite professor at Virginia Weslyan College and I treasured every moment and every class I had with him. I will always miss him and hearing his happy whistling. Thank you, Barclay for everything you taught me in art class!
Ed Carpenter
March 15, 2018
What a great person and teacher, I looked forward to his class everyday. Mr. Sheaks was always very encouraging even though my talent level was suspect. He remembered me several years after graduation when I saw him in Va. Beach and we had a very nice conversation. He was one of a kind and I am the proud owner of several of his works. Thank you for a life well lived. WHS 1966
Carolyb Bane
April 16, 2011
I was in Mr. Sheaks art class for several years. It was a joy to come to class everyday knowing that I would learn something new each time. I treasure the classes I had with Mr. Sheaks. He will be greatly missed.
Renee Somers
April 8, 2011
Never go a day without a fond remembrance
Toyonnia V, Portlock
April 6, 2011
I too was one of Barkley Sheaks students, at Virginia Weslyan College. Barkley was one of my heros, and he "once told me to paint from my heart " and I always do. Barkley was easy to make laugh, wonderful to hug and I will always treasure my time with him.(TC)
Gordon Caldwell
January 14, 2011
In 2002, my wife Linda and I met Barclay and Debbie on an Ireland tour. In my early retirement years, I was a neophyte artist, but through his contagious enthusiasm, Barclay inspired me to launch into painting as a full-time hobby.
I vividly remember Barclay and I trekking through Irish countryside to take pictures of a dilapidated but colorful boat that had been abandoned near the shore line. I don’t know whether Barclay has ever incorporated that boat in a painting, but nobody could have done it better than him.
maheen aziz
December 13, 2010
im the biggest fan of him ;-(
Jim Waggener
June 14, 2010
I too was a student of Barclay's at Warwick High in the '60's. A more gentle man you could not meet. I will always remember the bright scarfs he would wear. A real gentleman. God bless him and you Deborah
Dee Heslop Van Houten
May 19, 2010
Barclay was my art professor at Virginia Wesleyan College for 4 years. He was my inspiration to follow my passion in art. I'll never forget his cheerful laughter, whistling before class started or his bright, colorful ties that he always wore. He always had something good to say about a students artwork during our critiques. He was a wonderful human being and a very talented artist. I will miss him...
Carol Scotece Armstrong
May 18, 2010
Barclay, you will be missed.
Win Culpeper
May 12, 2010
Barclay was, and is, an icon in the world of art. I feel so fortunate to have shared time with him on the campus of Virginia Wesleyan College. I was not so fortunate to have the gift of art, however, everyone on campus viewed him with awe and honored his talent. He will be remembered and respected by many.
Win Culpeper
Janet Hauser
April 30, 2010
I was saddened to hear of Barclay's death. I took private art lessons from Barclay in his home in Hilton Village in Newport News. I was in high school then, and I learned so much from this man. He was a great teacher - kind and patient, and had a good sense of humor. I caught up with him again for another painting class in Williamsburg in the early 90's and it was a wonderful reunion. I have such fond memories. My prayers are with his family.
Jeannie Albertson-Fender
April 25, 2010
Oh, I was so SAD to hear of Barclay's passing! He was my art teacher at Warwick High School and I too admired him and his work. I will never forget that aqua blue Chevy (?) he drove to school. I remember when going to his house in Hilton, seeing that CAR crushed to a rectangular box resting as a SCULPTURE in his garden! He was truly an amazing gentleman. Yes, his name was a household word in Newport News. Debbie, I am so sorry to hear of your loss.
Caroyn Bane
April 23, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was a wonderful man and teacher. I studied art with him every year that I was in Warwick High School and he was the best. I loved art and he made it seem so easy. He will be greatly missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Erica Byrum
April 21, 2010
Mr. Sheaks will be missed greatly. I took numerous art classes with him at Virginia Wesleyan and he was always encouraging and a true joy to be around. Every day at class I looked forward to seeing his smiling face. I will never forget Mr. Sheaks, the man who not only taught me how to paint, but made me believe I actually could.
Erica Lee Byrum, VWC '01
Lee-Ann O'Dell
April 21, 2010
Deepest sympathy and heartfelt condolences to the Sheaks family. I studied under Professor Sheaks in the late 80's. He had an artist's heart combined with an innate ability to inspire and to teach.
Lee-Ann Howard O'Dell, VWC '90
April 20, 2010
Barclay Sheaks was a kind, patient and witty professor. I had never painted before and he was so encouraging. I value the one watercolor that I produced under his tutelege that looked pretty good and I think of him whenever I look at it. I know he is now in heaven talking to the master painter and having a great time. Godspeed. Aimee (Rosenberg) Tackett,
April 20, 2010
The Barclay Sheaks legacy includes a lot of outstanding artist. I know of one Mr. Sheaks would be really proud of, artist Bill Allen, here's a link to view some of his incredible art.http://www.skipjackmarinegallery.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=SFNT&Store_Code=SNWMG
Jerree Anderson
April 19, 2010
My Mother was a local Artists also, however She always loved Barkley's work. When I attended Virginia Weselyn, I took several of Barkley's classes, which thrilled my Mom. As an older student who loved to paint, Barkley and I became good friends. I'm very sad to learn of his passing. My condolences to his Family. I know he is so happy now, painting sceanry so beautiful we can't even imagin.
Love to you Barkley! Jerree Anderson ( Chesapeake, VA )
joyce timberlake
April 19, 2010
How fortunate we were to have had an opportunity to be influenced by such a good man. I want to say great because that's what he was but he was also a GOOD man. When you take what GOD has given us and nurture and love our talents and surround ourself with good works, it does influence many others to beter themselves. Barclay Sheaks was a PAY IT FORWARD type of guy. And he did just that. And it did influence a lot of people. He was true to himself and it showed in his many works. I, myself have a deep sadness at not being able to see him at the art shows and receptions we once exhibited in, but feel fortunate to be able to view his art every where I go. In fact, the day he died I was in a doctor's office and was admiring three of his paintings that I had never seen before. I hadn't seen him in awhile and hadn't even been thinking about him, but seeing his paintings that day, stirred up old art show memories. His art will live on forever in our hearts. Barclay, you will be greatly missed. We will love you forever. Joyce Timberlake
Peggy DeBellis Bruce VWC '92
April 19, 2010
My heartfelt condolences to Deborah and Mr. Sheaks family. I was a Human Services student @ VWC. In '91, during my last semester before an internship, I took a required art class for graduation and, in doing so, wished I had sat in Mr. Sheaks class MUCH sooner! He always had time for me & all my questions. I was never sure of anything I did. One day, after weeks of asking, "Is THIS how to do it?", Mr. Sheaks laughed, his wonderful laugh, and said, "They're going to put that on your tombstone!" He taught me a huge lesson that day... And I think of him often. I have collected as many of his works, as I can. But, more than that, his kindness and confidence in me, collected in my heart. For one who touched my life so briefly, he has had a tremendous, lasting and positive impact - on me and my Mom, who also studied with him, as an adult student. I am blessed to have known him.
Terry Cox-Joseph
April 19, 2010
I met Barclay a few times in passing, at frame shops and PFAC events. His name was a household word in Newport News and it was fun meeting him.
His service at the Ferguson Center for the Arts at CNU on Sunday was beautiful--the paintings and the stories behind them, Nick's fabulous piano pieces, the heartfelt, humorous and loving eulogies. What an awesome family.
Barclay will be missed.
Catherine Neal Kashouty Neal
April 19, 2010
Barclay Sheaks was so instrumental in my quest for an understanding of quality art. The first time I saw one of his paintings was in the collection of my husband's uncle. At that time in my life, I was just an artist want-a-be. I remember getting a tour of this beautiful home on Chesapeake Avenue in Hampton where several Barclay Sheak's paintings were part of a diverse collection of art pieces. Another uncle had studied under Barclay and told stories about him and his teaching style. Personally, the Queen Anne's Lace subject matter are among my favorite pieces. How fortunate he was to have added so much value to so many peoples lives.
Nonevee Schneider
April 19, 2010
Mr.Sheaks, as we students knew him at Warwick High, was a a very caring person who brought out the best in people. His class room was inviting and he showed a lot of interest in the welfare of his students. I remember in his classroom there were so many objects of art and unusual plant species, which stirred my interest in art and botany. My sister(Gwen Tews) and I were students at Warwick High School in the '50s and have fond memories of Mr. Sheaks. Our condolences go out to his family and we wish we could have seen Mr. Sheaks in our later years, but we moved from NN.
April 19, 2010
Barclay Sheaks was one of the kindest most patient teachers to ever grace the halls of Warwick High School. Everyone loved his art classes and many followed up on what he taught them in later years. He will be missed by the community.
April 18, 2010
We knew Barclay from his days of teaching at Warwick High School.
He was a good teacher and person and
Jack and Thelma Franske, took classes
in art and worked with him at the School. Jack and Thelma were priviledged to acquire the fisherman
painting which we now have as a result
of their passing. Barclay was blessed
with a talent from Jehovah God and thru
that talent helped many people to appreciate the world around us. Barclay
will be missed by all who knew him and
for his immediate family our prayers
go out for your confort in this time
of your loss.
Grant and Sidney Ballard
Martin Cacioppo
April 18, 2010
I grew up across the street from Barclay and will always remember how he would throw his head back when he laughed. And that laugh was always heard on Hopkins Street. He was never too busy to talk. I'll miss him and his warm and giving personality.
Judy-Ware Buchanan
April 18, 2010
What a tribute to such a great man as Dr. Sheaks. I know he would thank each and every one of us that has signed his guest book with such kind words and the love he was shown over the years. Deep respect and admiration for one such as he and the memories will last for all who knew loved and respected him.
Suzanne Marquess
April 18, 2010
Barclay was the best professor for what he taught me sunk in. I still apply techniques taught. Mind you, in decorating my flat!
He will be missed and never replaced.
Susan Dale
April 17, 2010
May the love of friends and family carry you through your grief. I am glad I had the pleasure of meeting Mr. Sheaks. He was always so pleasant and I enjoyed talking with him briefly about his art. He will be with us for many years to come because of his passion.
Collin Scott
April 17, 2010
I had the privilege of knowing Barclay when I worked with him during art openings for his paintings at our gallery in Newport News. He was a warm, and wonderfully charming man with a keen wit and a twinkle in his eye. Through his artwork he promoted the unique and pristine beauty of our beloved Tidewater with his adept use of the tools of his craft. Like many who have posted here; I, too, remember his laughter. He was the kind of man who built people up and shared the joy of life with all he met. My life was enriched by knowing him. He will indeed be missed among us.
Garland Hanson
April 17, 2010
In addition to his artistic talents, Barkley was also an avid hunter and fisherman! We shared a field and bait on a number of occasions! GREAT guy!
April 17, 2010
A legend has passed. Barclay enriched so many lives with his kindness, integrity, humor and passion for art. I remember art camp, riding in his turquoise Plymouth which he crushed and placed as a sculpture in his back yard. The art viewings at Poquoson house and Mrs. Ready's spinach pie. We went back a long time... until we meet again dear friend and teacher. Sarah Callahan, Cocoa, Fl.
Stephen Belvin
April 17, 2010
Mr. Sheaks will be greatly missed, I am sorry for your loss. His work as an artist will live forever in my mind and the worlds. He was a judge for several art contest I had entered as Jr. High and High school student. Please take care and God Bless.
David Luton
April 17, 2010
I remember Mr. Sheaks very fondly as he was my teacher for drawing class (circa 1985). I remember him as a great teacher and a kind person who had a great sense of humor. He will be greatly missed!
David S. Luton (class of '86)
Thomas Blackburn
April 17, 2010
Fond memories of Mr. Sheaks and the larger than life personality he brought to VWC.
Tom Blackburn VWC '96
Thomas Carson
April 17, 2010
One of the greatest teachers and motivators of all time. His personal influence will be felt for the ages. WHS was really blessed to have him and he will be sorely missed. Thanks for sharing Mr. Sheaks.
Michael McCracken
April 17, 2010
As a Mason Shoe Salesman and a ex-next door neighbor, Mr. Sheaks was my best customer and the kind of person you would be proud to have for a friend and a teacher for any art class! Whether it's learning basics or advanced art class!
My wife, Joyce Pounders McCracken - used to watch him on PBS!
Warwick High School 1971
Liz Millinor
April 17, 2010
My mom taught with Mr. Sheaks at Warwick and has a couple of his paintings. I remember growing up looking at those and watching his show on PBS. It was an honor to take a few classes with him during my VWC days. He was a gentle soul with a good sense of humor and he will be missed! Prayers to his family!
Giorgio Valentini
April 16, 2010
I am deeply saddened by the passing of Dr. Sheaks. As my art professor at Virginia Wesleyan, he inspired me to draw, paint and express my true calling - graphic arts. He will truly be missed.
Kat McDonald
April 16, 2010
He was a profound and open influence on my art. I saved his classes until the semesters I could truly enjoy them. Thank you for your insight and caring! Kat McDonald
Judith Walker/Brett WHS "64"
April 16, 2010
I signed the guest book for Mr. Sheaks once but something else funny came to my mind. My older brother and I were in the same art class taught by Barclay Sheaks. Mr. Sheaks knew I didn't want anyone to know he was my brother because he was always so sleepy. Mr. Sheaks played the game with a smile, but he asked me once if my brother had a bed? I am not sure what his grade was, but he would always say, "I like my art class" and I would say, "How do you know, you slept through it"? Thank you Mr. Sheaks you were always so kind!
renee somers
April 16, 2010
I am dumbfounded. I was a student of Barclay Sheaks at Warwick High School and graduated from Virginia Wesleyan College as his student as well in 1974. I have been inspired, encouraged and driven in my teaching from the tremendous example I received from him. I saw him as a father figure and enjoyed the kind of love that one receives from one that has no expectations other than my own good in this world. I think of him each day as I teach my students and am so terribly grieved at his passing. The world was a much better place for me because of him. I stayed in touch with him over the years but did not see him as much as I would have liked since I moved quite a few times since my divorce. My oldest son became an art teacher and teaches in Alvin, Texas as an elementary teacher, my youngest son got a teaching degree for literature and his wife is an art teacher in Harrisonburg, Va. and my middle son is a stock broker. I owe much to Mr. Sheaks. His memory is my comfort and his life is my guide. Renee (Bunny) Smith Somers
Brenda Ashburn-Pelfrey
April 16, 2010
As a student of Barclay at WHS in the 70's he will be greatly missed as an Art Teacher Hero. My condolences to all of his family and friends.
Karen Bucklin
April 16, 2010
I was a student of Mr. Sheaks in 1971-73. He was an inspirational man and a wonderful teacher. I have thought of him fondly over the years since. My deepest sympathy to the family. I'll keep you all in my prayers.
Karen Bucklin VWC '76
Beth Johnson VWC - '97
April 16, 2010
Mr. Sheaks had a great passion for art and was able to share it with those "non-art" folks such as myself. I truly enjoyed being in his class. He will be missed by many.
Bucky Smith
April 16, 2010
The next reunion for the Class of 68 will never be the same with this wonderful and talented man. How thankful I am that this last reunion I was able to spend the quality time talking and hearing about his amazing life. His journey brought together so many people. My best to the family because as you, I will miss him greatly.
George Chrismon
April 16, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was a real person. Even when your artwork was questionable, he always smiled and gave you that Sheaks laugh. Thanks Mr. Sheaks for making Warwick High art a memorable experience.
Brenna Gintyrapp
April 16, 2010
I took classes from Mr. Sheaks over 10 years ago. I still have his book and my artwork from those classes. He was a wonderful man and teacher. I am honored to ahve know him.
Arik Solomon
April 16, 2010
A wonderful man who taught with incredible passion and joy for the arts.
-AJS
VWC - '03
April 16, 2010
Barclay was a true friend and teacher.
Under his instruction at Virginia Wesleyan College, he introduced the humor side of art. I thank you Barclay for giving your all to us.
Carla B. Bergdoll, Virginia Beach, VA
Nancy Sweet
April 16, 2010
Please accept my sincerest sympathy for your loss. Barclay was a wonderfully kind and talented person, respected by all who knew him. I studied Art with him at VA Wesleyan in the early seventies. I will always remember him.
John Davenport
April 16, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was an incredible person: excellent artist, teacher, and friend to 1000s of people. He instilled in his students a deep appreciation for art -- unlike any teacher I've ever known. His influence continues to live on through our lives, and we pass it on to others. My son is an artist and attends college studying art, he plans to teach art. It is remarkable how one person can have such an impact on so many people. Farewell to my friend Mr. Sheaks. Farewell J. Davenport South Bend, IN Warwick '72
Nicholas Banks
April 16, 2010
Barclay Sheaks was a great artist, a nice and unique person. He will be deeply missed.
Nicholas -- World of Art by Nicholas
e-mail -- [email protected]
Amorette Warren
April 16, 2010
Please accept my sympathy for your loss. Barclay was a talented artist and a warm, caring teacher. He was my teacher in an adult education class at Warwick High School in 1967. He had a good sense of humor when he was teaching our class. I have followed his career over the years, and have one of his books and a picture that he painted of a floral arrangement on the wall of my living room. He will be sorely missed by many of us. Amorette Warren (Yorktown, VA)
Rev Dr Jim Lehman
April 16, 2010
It is with saddness to learn of passing of such a talented and fine man. May God bless Barclay, and open the gates to him. Condolences and prayer to his family.
Christin Harvey
April 16, 2010
[Deborah] May your beautiful memories and family surround you and carry you through these hard times. All at Zenya are thinking about and praying for you.
May you, as always, be surrouned in Peace, Love, and Light!
Judith Brett
April 16, 2010
When I was sitting in the lounge @ Riverside Hospital waitng to hear the fate of my mother, I looked up & saw a painting by Barclay Sheaks my art teacher from WHS. So many times I have seen his work and thought of those days @ Warwick. His paintings always brought peace to your heart. Mr. Sheaks was blessed in so many ways. His paintings and books will remain here forever in our hearts. A wonderful Christian man is gone but not forgotten. WHS class of "64"
Peggy Woodall Young
April 16, 2010
Barclay Sheaks was my art teacher at Warwick High. He was such a wonderful man. My parents asked him to paint of me for my graduation in 1960. I still have the painting and think of the kind, generous man each time I look at that picture. Along with all of us who were lucky enough to have known him I too will miss you Barclay.
David Carroll
April 16, 2010
My deepest sympathy goes out to Barclay's family. Barclay taught me at Virginia Wesleyan College. He was a wonderful artist with a true appreciation for nature. He had tremendous passion for the arts. In deepest sympathy-David Carroll Newport News Public Schools- VWC Class of 83
Linda Chrismon - Rogers
April 16, 2010
So sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Sheaks. He was always my favorite teacher at Warwick High School where I was a student during the early 60's...He will missed by many..
Evelyn H. Small
April 15, 2010
I was in Mr Sheaks class in 1958. Oh so long ago. He was someone when you met him you could not forget him and it was more than his Art. In the 80's I called about a a painting, he could't remember the painting, but he knew who I was. He will be in out hearts forever.
Evelyn Hancock Small Goldsboro, NC
Debbie Clark-Ward
April 15, 2010
I am saddened to hear of Mr. Sheaks passing. I so looked forward to his Art classes when I attended WHS. I ran into him several times and was very inspired by his work. I think it is wonderful he lived a life doing what he seemed to love doing! I hope the family can find comfort in the memories they shared with him. He will never be forgotten.
Deanna Sparrow
April 15, 2010
Mr Sheaks was my art teacher at WHS and made an impression in my "young artist" frame of mind, and instilled in his students to appreciate art in the many forms that it may take. To me, he is a work of art. He will be missed, but never forgotten! My prayers are with his family and loved ones that he leaves behind.
Rhonda Brogden Stahmer
April 15, 2010
I graduated from Warwick High in 1970 and the absolute highlight of my times there were my classes with "Mr. Sheaks" and the cast of amazing art teachers that we were blessed with. What a wonderful opportunity to know him and to see him at work. I had so hoped to see him once more and I am so sorry to hear that is no longer possible. I have spoken of him so often and with such fondness I felt as if he remainded a part of my life. He certainly is a part of every piece of artwork that I have ever done. Imagine how many students can say that! Barclay Sheaks will live on in his artwork and through all those students whose lives he touched. What a rich life! I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to have known him.
Sonny Hanson
April 15, 2010
We were so blessed to be close to Barclay and to be called 'friend ' by him. He had the most wonderful smile , laugh and the twinkle in his eyes was so bright it would light up with each story he told. We will love him forever.
Barbara Kerlin
April 15, 2010
I was a student at WHS in the 60's and remember Mr. Sheaks with great fondness. He was one of the best, they don't make Art teachers like him anymore. My thoughts & prayers are with his family.
Robin Welch
April 15, 2010
I was a student of his at Warwick High in the early 70's. He was such a great teacher and artist. I will never forget his paintings of his wife with the big glasses. He really knew his craft. He will be missed by so many.
Merle Sammons Ivey
April 15, 2010
Over forty years ago, Mr. Sheaks gave a "Chalk Talk" about aging with grace and joy... to our youth group at First Baptist Church. I have thought of that talk many times through the years. He was an inspiration to all he met..in the quiet moments as well as the public ones.
Sid Nowell
April 15, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was a Great Teacher, Friend and Inspiration to his students. My thoughts and Prayers go to Debbie and the Family.
Dolores Stewart
April 15, 2010
I too was a student of Mr. Sheaks at Warwick High School, Class of 1961. I originally took his class to fill my schedule but soon it was the class I looked forward to every day. Whenever I saw one of his paintings in a business establishment I never failed to let people know that I knew the artist. I have four of his prints which I really cherish.
My condolences to his family. He will be missed by so many people.
marilynn hunt
April 15, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was my art teacher at Warwick High School. I can still hear his voice and see his smile... What a great loss to us all! Marilynn Hunt WHS 1971
Deborah "Mangum"
April 15, 2010
Mr. Sheaks was my art teacher at Warwick High School in 1968. I went on to get a degree in commercial art. I am proud to have been one of his many students. My condolences to his family for their loss.
Martha Muire Wright
April 15, 2010
My mother taught with Barclay Sheaks for many years at Warwick High School and collected many of his works. She knew I loved his paintings of beach scenes and left five of them to me when she passed. Our 20th high school reunion gift for the class of 1961 was one of Mr. Sheaks charcoal drawings which is mounted and in a frame in my den. He will always be remembered as a wonderful teacher and artist.
Tamara Faison Alderman
April 15, 2010
Deborah,
I am truly sorry to hear of the passing of your husband. To those of us who knew Barclay Sheaks as a talented and respected teacher and artist, hearing of his passing is saddening. You are in my thoughs and prayers.
Sandra LeCount
April 15, 2010
Barclay was such a wonderful person and a great teacher. I will forever be grateful for the influence that he gave me when I was his art student. God Bless you and your family in your time of grief.
Janice Kirby-Baxter
April 15, 2010
What a terrible loss for the family and the world at large. Mr. Sheaks was my art teacher at Warwick High School way back when and I can only say he was my favorite teacher of all time. He was a great teacher first, but a great man as well. He inspired many young artist to follow their hearts and find joy in creating beautiful things. All this he did with passion, patience and humor. I never could paint so much as a decent stick man, but he started me off on a life long love of arts and crafts that have brought me countless hours of peace, lifted my confidence and often paid the bills. His teaching and his art will live on through the countless people he touched and inspired.
My deepest condolences to his family and friends. May you find comfort in the legacy he leaves to so many.
Linda Schaltegger
April 15, 2010
Mr Sheaks was a neighbor of mine in Hilton, and one morning came out in the bitter cold and finished scraping ice off my windshield. He then introduced himself, and made quite an impression on me, even though I knew of his famous paintings. May God Bless with many fond memories. Linda
April 15, 2010
We can all look back on our lives and remember certain people that just stood out among the rest.
Mr. Sheaks was one of those, from my high school days.
He was more than just my art teacher, he was a down to earth LIFE teacher and will always be remenbered in my mind and in my heart.
Skip Jackson WHS 1961
Pam Chalkley
April 15, 2010
The world has lost a great artist and man. His eyes and hands showed many people what they would never have seen otherwise. My heartfelt sympathy goes to his family and loved ones. A great talent has been received in heaven.
Sonja Deal
April 15, 2010
I knew Mr Sheaks from many years at Dr Evans office. He always had a smile and was an awesome artist. I know he will be missed by all who knew him.
Wayne Dickerson
April 15, 2010
My condolences to the family for the loss of a great "teacher". Mr. Sheaks was my art instructor at Warwick High School in the early '60s. Although I was a lousy 'artist', I was amazed at the talent of Mr. Sheaks with a pencil or a brush. I relish my insignificant time with him....may God bless.
Showing 1 - 83 of 83 results
Make a Donation
in Barclay SHEAKS's name
Memorial Events
for Barclay SHEAKS
Funeral services provided by:
Peninsula Funeral Home & Crematory11144 Warwick Boulevard, Newport News, VA 23601
How to support Barclay's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
The Five Stages of Grief
They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.
Read moreWays to honor Barclay SHEAKS's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
