George A. Sheeley

Former Ellenville Police Chief George A. Sheeley (affectionately known as "G" to his family and friends) passed away on Tuesday, November 21, 2023, at his home in Ellenville, surrounded by his loving family. He was born on June 2, 1933, at the former Veteran's Memorial Hospital in Ellenville to Donald W. and Mae K. Wright Sheeley. George attended Napanoch Elementary School under the guidance of Miss Helen Cushner and Mr. Edward Chase, followed by Ellenville High School where he proudly graduated in June 1951.

After serving in the United States Army from 1953 until 1955, George returned home to Napanoch and began his career as a meat cutter. He worked at various stores including A&P, Daitch Shopwell, Victory Markets, and finally Peters' Market where he found great joy in tormenting and joking around with owner Dick Peters on a daily basis alongside his cousin Joe Geiselhart and Bill McClay.

George found his true calling on May 21, 1961 when he joined the Ellenville Police Department as a patrolman. Through hard work and dedication, he rose through the ranks and was eventually appointed Chief of Police in 1975 by former Mayor Jerome Z. Elkin. George served as Chief of Police until his retirement. With a 31-year career marked by significant changes over the years including the introduction of the first-ever teletype system in Ellenville, portable radios smaller than a lunch box, and upgraded communications to replace the old light system that relied on a light bulb next to the traffic lights on Market Street. Later, he earned his associate degree from UCCC in January 1998.

George was not only a dedicated law enforcement officer but also excelled at connecting with people on a human level. For over two decades, he served as the head of security for the Ellenville Central School under the leadership of Business Manager Sol Sashin, and later as Head of Security for Ellenville Regional Hospital for 15 years after retiring from the police force.

George was well-known for his acerbic wit and classic one-liners. Though a man of few words, those around him always knew where they stood. An avid sports enthusiast, George had an unwavering love affair with his New York Yankees which he enthusiastically shared with others. He fondly recalled his first-ever Yankee game when his idol Joe DiMaggio hit two home runs in one game. Additionally, George enjoyed an active lifestyle and could often be found running on the track at Ellenville Central School, donning his Gatorade-colored track suit to the chagrin of his children. He loved being outdoors, whether it be riding his horse, taking motorcycle rides, or simply basking in the warmth of the sun on his face.

George cherished memories of growing up in Napanoch during simpler times when neighbors knew one another and doors remained unlocked. A close family friend once said that to know G was to love him, and those who had the privilege certainly did.

George is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Mary Sheeley; his children John Sheeley and his wife Gayle of Chester, Theresa Sheeley of Cragsmoor; and his granddaughter Lindsey Sheeley whom he held in great pride. He is also survived by step-grandchildren Joseph P. Stoeckeler III, Erica Gamble, Katie Stoeckeler, Daniel Tucker, and James Tucker. George leaves behind his sister Susan Sheeley Hildebrand of Texas; brother Donald Sheeley of Port Jervis; step-siblings Richard Comfort of Florida; Colleen St. John of Louisiana; sister-in-law Jeanne Roosa of Wurtsboro; nephews Michael Roosa, Larry Roosa, Scott Krom, Chad Davison and Richard Davison; nieces Lisa Smiles, Debra Krom, and Christina Comfort-Jones.

In addition to his parents, George was predeceased by his son-in-law Joseph P. Stoeckeler Jr. and step-sister Sharon Krom.

A visitation will be held on Sunday, November 26, 2023, from 1-4pm at Loucks Funeral Home in Ellenville. Friends and family are invited to share their stories at 3pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Hudson Valley Hospice or the Joseph P. Stoeckeler Jr. Memorial Golf Course, or any charity of one's choice.