Nicole Celeste Sheldon

In Memory of Beloved Daughter, Sister & Mother Nicole Celeste Sheldon

Nicole Celeste Sheldon, affectionately known as “Nikki” to all who loved her and as “Little Bit” to her parents, passed away unexpectedly on June 12, 2026. She was 37 years old.

Born on March 8, 1989, in Derby, Connecticut, Nikki was the cherished daughter of Steven and Susan Sheldon. From an early age, she brought warmth, laughter, and light to those around her.

Nikki’s greatest love was her son, Jeremy. The bond they shared was extraordinary, built on friendship, devotion, and unconditional love. Jeremy lovingly described his mother as, “The strongest most beautiful mom, who did nothing but brighten up every room she went into. She did everything she could to make people's day better and everything she could to make you smile. We did everything to take care of each other: getting each other food, doing house chores, playing video games, watching TV together and just talking. She was my best friend, my mom, the best daughter, everything and then some.” Nikki loved Jeremy more than anyone else in the world, and he remained the center of her life.

Nikki was the General Manager of Friendly’s in Naugatuck and Southington, where she took tremendous pride in her work. To her coworkers, she was far more than a manager- she was a mentor, a confidante, a mother figure, and a best friend. She had a remarkable ability to make people feel seen, heard, and valued. Nikki was an active listener who truly got to know people, and her kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she met.

Those who knew Nikki will remember her as one of the most thoughtful and considerate people they had ever met. She delighted in finding the perfect gift for loved ones, always putting the needs and happiness of others before her own. She was the type of person who gave everyone a second chance, even when others would not. Her generous heart, unwavering compassion, and radiant smile made her a true ray of sunshine.

Nikki found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved kayaking, spending time at the beach, driving around and listening to her favorite music, enjoyed her meetings, and especially cherished Bantam Lake, where she enjoyed many peaceful days on the water with her beloved fiancé, Gary LaRowe. Following Gary’s passing in November of last year, Nikki carried a profound sense of loss. Those who loved her take comfort in believing that the two have now been reunited.

Nikki leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and selflessness. She is survived by her loving parents, Steven and Susan Sheldon of Ansonia; her beloved son, Jeremy Sheldon-Cable of Waterbury; her brother, Steven Sheldon Jr. and his wife, Jennifer, of Naugatuck; her cherished nieces, Kaydence and Kira; her nephew, Landyn; several aunts and uncles; and many cousins, friends, coworkers, and all whose lives were brightened by knowing her.

Family and friends are invited to attend calling hours on Saturday, June 27, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. at Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home, 122 Waterbury Road, Prospect, CT 06712. A funeral service celebrating Nikki’s life will begin at the funeral home at 12:30 p.m. and conclude at 1:00 p.m.

Though her time here was far too short, Nikki’s love, generosity, and beautiful spirit will remain forever in the hearts of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Prospect Memorial/The Palmerie Family Funeral Home is honored to care for Nikki and assist her family during this difficult time. Please leave your memories, condolences, and photos of Nikki on her Tribute Wall on this page.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Nicole Celeste Sheldon, please visit our floral store.