Sharyn Elaine O'Connell

Sharyn Elaine O'Connell, 76, of Cheshire, CT, passed away peacefully on September 25, 2025, at Connecticut Hospice in Branford, CT.

Born on November 26, 1948, in Springfield, MA, to the late Wilbur and Phyllis Nicholas. Sharyn grew up in Springfield and graduated from the High School of Commerce in 1966. Over the course of her life, she made her home in many places, including Ludlow, MA; Santa Fe, NM; Kingsport, TN; and, for the last decade, Cheshire, CT.

Sharyn's life was defined by selflessness, humility, and kindness. She was endlessly generous, always putting others before herself. Even in death, she carried this spirit forward by donating her body to Yale School of Medicine for the purpose of medical education and research, bringing her journey full circle to the place where her final chapter began at Yale New Haven Hospital.

She was predeceased by her parents; her sisters Marcia "Marty" Parsons and Ellen Hill; her baby brother, Kenneth Evans Nicholas; and her grandson, Nicholas Joseph Bibeau, with whom she is now joyfully reunited.

Sharyn leaves behind her beloved children: Denise Del Favero and her husband Jeffrey of Mitchell, SD; Dyan Croteau of Hilton Head Island, SC; Evan O'Connell and his wife Naomi of Springfield, MA; and Heather Sliney and her husband Thomas of Somers, CT. She was the proud and devoted grandmother of Michael, Nicholas, Matthew, Kayla, Tyler, Alyssa, Mason, and Logan, each of whom brought her endless joy.

She is also survived by her cherished sister, Sandra Williams, with whom she shared an unbreakable bond; her dear friend Yvonne Jimenez, who lovingly cared for her during her final year; and her best friend and neighbor, Franny, who filled her days with companionship and laughter.

The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the medical teams and staff at Yale New Haven Hospital, The Regency House in Wallingford, and Connecticut Hospice in Branford. Each of you offered care, compassion, and comfort that will never be forgotten.

A celebration of Sharyn's life will be held at a later date.