Sheila Kathleen (Coughlin) Horan

With deep sadness the Horan and Coughlin families announce the passing of Sheila Kathleen (Coughlin) Horan, 93, of Calgary, Alberta, on June 14, 2025, at home surrounded by her loving family.

Born on December 22, 1931, in Winnipeg, Manitoba, Sheila was the beloved daughter of Philip and Zita Coughlin. She spent her formative years in Winnipeg attending St. Mary’s Academy. These early years were marked by close-knit relationships. From a young age, Sheila forged deep and lasting friendships, and cultivated unbreakable bonds with her beloved cousins, connections she cherished throughout her entire life.

She earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in English from the University of Manitoba in 1954, a testament to her sharp intellect and lifelong love of learning. Her university years were also marked by her athleticism, as she was a proud member of the university basketball team. It was during her time at university that her brother, Patrick, set her up on a blind date with Gordon Thomas Horan. That memorable evening marked the beginning of a 56-year love story, a devoted partnership that lasted until Gordon’s passing in 2008. Soon after graduation, they were married and embarked on a new chapter, moving to Killarney, Manitoba where they would ranch and grow their family. In 1967, Sheila and Gordon moved their bustling family to Calgary, where she dedicated herself to raising her children, fostering a home where everyone was welcome and loved. She was a fierce advocate for her children, ensuring they had every opportunity to thrive and succeed. As her family grew, Sheila embraced her role as a grandmother with immense joy, cherishing every moment spent with her grandchildren.

Sheila was a woman of many passions and deep convictions. She was a devout member of the Catholic faith, where she tirelessly volunteered her time and talents. Her active social life was reflected in her long-standing memberships at the Glencoe Club and Ranchmen’s Club. A formidable opponent at the bridge table, she achieved the status of Life Master, a reflection of her strategic mind and competitive spirit. Beyond her sharp intellect, Sheila was immensely wise. Her profound wisdom was evident in her ability to offer sage advice with remarkable clarity, to see situations with a discerning eye, and to guide her family and friends through life’s complexities.

Sheila’s life was a testament to strength, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to her faith and her family. She created a legacy of love, laughter and wisdom that will continue to inspire all who knew her.

Sheila was predeceased by her beloved husband, Gordon Thomas, her cherished son, Thomas Michael, her parents, Philip and Zita Kathleen (Burns) Coughlin, her brothers and sister-in-law Patrick (Isabelle) and Ed Coughlin, and her nephew Gerald Coughlin.

She is survived by her devoted children, Kelly, Richard, Larry (Jo-Ann), Dennis, Tracy, Patrick, and Jeff (Jill), her grandchildren, Jennifer, Cameron, Philip, Colin, Kevin, Thomas and Charlie,  great grandchildren, Vera, Penelope, Gabe, and Elliot, her sister-in-law, Mary Coughlin, her nieces and nephews, Bridget (Havoc) Franklin, Tim (Shirley) Coughlin, Kevin Coughlin, Brian (Dee) Coughlin, and Catherine Thiessen (Bobby), Christy Bangen (Leroy), Cory Humble (Dave), Patti, Elizabeth (Doug), and Amy (Dave) Coughlin.

The family extends heartfelt gratitude to TheKey Senior Homecare and our mother’s loving caregivers, Emily, Fifi and Lolly, who treated our mother like she was their own. These incredible women were truly angels to our family, and we are so grateful for their exceptional love and care. We also offer special thanks to Dr. Jennifer Mikhayel and the AHS Homecare team for their outstanding support and compassion.

Relatives and friends are invited to a Prayer Service to be held on Monday, June 23, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish, 5340 – 4 Street SW, Calgary. A Funeral Mass will be celebrated on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Anthony’s Catholic Parish.

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