Sheila Shear WESSNER

WESSNER, Sheila Shear

85, passed away September 30, 2016, with her family by her side after a brief stay in hospice care. She was a longtime performer, director, teacher, and mentor in local community and professional theatre. She was born in Dayton, OH, moved to St. Petersburg in 1959, and began her theatre career here in 1961. Her talents and influence touched every aspect of the theatre world. She was active with St. Petersburg City Theatre, Francis Wilson Playhouse, Early Bird Dinner Theatre, Eight O'Clock Theatre, the former Music Box and Pelican Playhouses, Eckerd College's Drama and Wordbridge programs, District IV Thespians, and many local schools. She was co-founder of Actors' Arena at Ruth Eckerd Hall and founder of Act Now Studios, Inc. in Clearwater. In addition to her local work, she toured as an Actors' Equity member to various dinner theatres around the country. She also enjoyed greatly her beloved family and many dear friends, as she nurtured and cherished every relationship throughout her life. We will all miss her endless enthusiasm and her amazing smile. She is survived by her brother, Michael Johnson (Ann Rainey); son, Chad Shear (Cindy); daughter, Amy MacCallum Peer (Jay); grandchildren, Ian MacCallum, Megan Johnson (Will), Jennifer Shear, Britten Featherston (Chris), Jerry Peer (Danielle); great-grandchildren, Loki and Lilith Johnson, Audrey and Dylan Featherston; one cousin, three nephews and their families. A celebration of life memorial service will be held Tuesday, November 15, 7 pm, at the St. Petersburg City Theatre, doors open at 6 pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Petersburg City Theatre in her honor.