Shelia Romenia Harshaw, born November 1, 1953, passed away on August 25, 2026. She will be remembered as an understanding, patient, and loving woman whose life was marked by devotion to her family, her church, and the people around her. She was known for reminding others not to follow the crowd, offering steady guidance with warmth and care.

A graduate of Lenoir High School, Class of ’72, Shelia went on to work for two decades at Broyhill Occasional #1. She was also a beloved member of Mt. Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church, where she served faithfully on the Mt. Pilgrim Kitchen Staff and was an active member of the Women’s Ministry. Her church service was among the accomplishments she held with pride, and it reflected the generous and dependable spirit that shaped her daily life.

Shelia found joy in both simple pleasures and meaningful traditions. She had an amazing green thumb, cherished family movie nights, and was known for her baked macaroni and cheese. She enjoyed cheering for the Dallas Cowboys and the Carolina Panthers, playing Candy Crush, watching black and white movies, and sleeping. She also took great pride in getting her driver’s license later in life, an accomplishment that spoke to her determination. In countless ways, she made herself available to others, always providing transportation to any family member or friend in need.

Her love for family remained at the center of her life. She is survived by her daughter, Joanie Harshaw, and her son, Jammie Harshaw. She also leaves her grandchild, Caleb Harshaw of Lenoir, and great-grandchildren, Ny'Shawn Harshaw, Jah' Noah Harshaw, and Khyon Harshaw, who brought another generation of love to her family circle. She is also survived by her brother, Houston Harshaw of South Carolina, and his wife, Dorothy Harshaw; her brother, Joseph Warlix of Tennessee; and her sisters, Glendia Watts and Janetta Norwood and her husband Rayford, both of Lenoir; as well as sisters-in-law Emma Harshaw of South Carolina and, Mona, and Donna Harshaw of Lenoir. Last but not least, a host of multi-generations of nieces and nephews and loving friends.

Shelia's memory will also be cherished by Mote "Sport" Ferguson and Melinda Ferguson, Debra Cutshall, along with Tasha Miller, Dwayne Miller, Kaleigha Miller, Crystal Hendrix, Daisy Murillo, Ricky Murillo, and Mercedes Paz, all of whom were part of the wide circle of people touched by her kindness and presence.

She was preceded in death by her father, Grady J. Harshaw, Sr; her mother, Ruth Harshaw; her sister, Ruth Rutherford; her brothers, Evlis Harshaw, Jerry Harshaw, Grady Harshaw, Jr., Montrose Harshaw, Jeffery Harshaw and one brother in-law Hugh Watts.

Family and friends will gather for the Receiving of Friends on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, from 2:30 p.m. until 3:00 p.m. at Mt. Pilgrim Baptist Church, 539 Willow Street Northwest, Lenoir, NC 28645. A Celebration of Life will follow at 3:00 p.m. at the church. Burial will take place at Blue Ridge Memorial Park, 2017 Wilkesboro Blvd., Lenoir, NC.

Shelia Romenia Harshaw leaves behind a legacy of faith, service, love, and everyday generosity. She gave of herself freely, cared deeply for those around her, and created lasting memories through her presence, her cooking, her encouragement, and her steadfast love. She will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

The service will be livestreamed on the McCain Funeral Home Facebook Page & YouTube Channel. The links are found below:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome

https://www.youtube.com/@mccainfuneralhomecremation3478