Sheila Brooks Bertino

Sheila Elaine Brooks Bertino (1949-2024)

       Sheila loved her role as “Mom” and transitioned eagerly to the title of “Grams”.  Her grandchildren could do no wrong in her eyes, and she devoted her energy to seeing that they were lavished with gifts and attention.  Sheila Bertino, 74, of Erin, TN died peacefully in Spartanburg,          South Carolina on April 30, 2024 surrounded by her family.

       She was born in Erin in 1949 to Claude Preston brooks and Dorthea Roberts.  Some of her fondest memories were her travels, tracing and honoring her father’s service in World War II.

       Sheila attended Houston County High School where she was the lead in the school play, a majorette, and a cheerleader.  She graduated from the University of TN with both an undergraduate and master’s degree before going on to work in communications in multiple public education and government settings.

       Sheila met the love of her life, Jim, in 1979, after moving to Lexington, KY, and they married in 1980.  In the following years, they enjoyed travel, live music, and dance while awaiting the birth of their son, Matthew.  Sheila’s greatest joy was her son, Matthew, and later her role as Grams.             She was known for her green thumb and for making the most beautiful assortments of Christmas cookies each year. 

       Sheila was preceded in death by her parents Claude Preston Brooks and Dorthea Brooks, and is survived by her beloved husband James John Bertino Sr., son Matthew Bertino (Johanna Bertino), stepson James Bertino Jr., and grandchildren Linda, Evelyn, and Matthew Bertino.

       A Celebration of Life Service was held 10:00 AM Sunday, May 5, 2024 at Cedar Hill Cemetery with Pastor Chuck Whitmire officiating.

       The donations in memory of Sheila Bertino may be given to the Rheumatology Research Foundation at www.rheumresearch.org or 2200 Lade Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30319, or to the PAN Foundation www.panfoundation.org or P.O. Box 716408, Philadelphia, PA 19171.