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Obituary For Myong Ja Lee Sheahan
Myong Ja (Lee) Sheahan passed away peacefully, on the night of January 21, 2026, immersed in love with her 4 children by her side.
Born in South Korea, she came to the United States in 1970 and proudly became a U.S. citizen in 1984, building a life defined by perseverance, tenacity, and resolve.
Lee was a woman of remarkable spirit, was known for her colorful expressions in fashion and how she showed care and consideration for those she loved. A child of God and deeply God-loving, she moved through life with faith and a vibrant sense of awe and wonder.
Her joys were discovered in simple pleasures and everyday rituals. She enjoyed dancing and listening to music, playing Mahjong, watching funny movies, going to a "shoot pool place" a.k.a. Senior Center and challenging herself with wordsearches. She was a student in the GED program at Durham Technical Community College and wore the "Student" title proudly. She was no stranger to Surf City Pier helping reel in dinner, but not before making Halmoni time for arts, crafts and make-believe with her youngest grandson AJ. Weekends were characterized by her Costco sample binges and Classic all-beef hot dog combos, something she and her grandson Ty'Qorii were famously crazy about.
She was a proud and devoted mother/grandmother and took immense pride in the family she built. She is survived by her sons Bob Sheahan and wife Hue Sheahan, Elvis Sheahan and wife Diana Sheahan, Erik Sheahan and wife Joel Clay, and daughter Christina Sheahan. She was a cherished grandmother whose heart overflowed for her four grandsons: Jeremy Sheahan, Corey Sheahan, Ty'Qorii Clay-Sheahan, and AJ Sheahan.
Her presence brought light into every space she entered, never meeting a stranger, greeting everyone with her radiant smile. Her compassion, strength, and vibrance for life left a lasting impression on all fortunate to meet and know her. May we all strive to be a true student of life...in honor and remembrance of Lee, embracing new experiences with childlike enthusiasm and awe. She truly was LOVE and so deeply lovable that she will live on in our hearts as we carry her in remembrance.
From her children:
Mom, we hope you know how unbelievably beautiful your soul is. You raised four children on your own, selflessly and without complaint, shaping our lives with honesty, compassion, and strength. It is hard to accept that you are no longer with us in physical form, yet we smile knowing you remain with us in spirit. Until we see you again in heaven, we will continue to live as you taught us to live, and more importantly, strive to be more like you. We promise to remember your words and carry them forward: "Enjoy every minute, kiddos. It goes fast like a finger click."
Words from a very wise woman.
Our amazing mom.
The family welcomes any stories or memories any of you are willing to share. ♥️
Photos & Video
Condolences & Tributes
Add A CondolenceI'm so saddened to hear of Lee's passing and think of her with the fondest of memories. I pray for her entire family would you find comfort and peace and knowing that she lived a full and happy life. I'm at Lee through a club that we both participated in. She was so friendly that we struck up our relationship immediately. She would share about her life in Korea how she came here, she loved to talk about her grandson and her children. She was so proud of her family and all of their accomplishments. She would say things like, "They are very hard workers, they come and get me and take me to the beach, driving all that way. My grandson is so smart. I'm going to school and learning just like my grandchildren are." She called every week to see how I was doing. I was blessed by her love, courage, and spiritual energy.
I am so saddened to learn of the passing of this beautiful soul. Lee navigated a life of challenges with strength and faith, and always a smile. It makes me happy to know she is in heaven with her Heavenly Father whom she worshipped and depended upon. I will miss her.
I've never met anyone who loved photos as much as me! When Lee was there, I knew I could get as many group photos as I wanted without Bob making a fuss. I felt so lucky when Lee would call or text me. I was never fully sure if it was intentional or if she meant to call DianA. But she always made me feel her special love and that whatever message she had to share was just for me. We were both professional students, and I enjoyed reviewing homework together. I still have the pencils she gave me. What a lovely and genuine treasured sweetheart! Love you, Mamma Sheahan!!!
Beautiful words for a beautiful soul. Your mom will be missed, she touched the lives of many, with her kind words and genuine zest and inquisitive mind. Small gifts were a token of her heart. Food was the love language everyone understood. I have had my feet beneath her table countless times enjoying Korean culture, delicious food, funny stories, her unique way of storytelling, and distinct and infectious giggle. We have danced, laughed and shared many lifetimes together as she saw us grow up, and then as we got older, we realized we grew up together. My Sheahan sister and brothers, thank you for sharing your mother with me. Her light shines bright in all of you. Wishing you all infinite love and peace. ❤️ 🦋
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I am so saddened to hear this news. Your mom was a fashionista,so full of life, spunky and just a beautiful light. May the Lord wrap His arms around you and your family as you go through this time of great loss. She was definitely loved by many including myself. Hugs to you and your family Christina!! ❤️🌹🙏🏾
Wishing your family our deepest sympathies. Your mom lives on in all your beautiful memories of her.
I worked with Lee for several years at Rhône Poulenc. She had an amazing work ethic. She was also extremely proud of her family. Lee will be missed!!
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
