ABERCROMBIE (McNEILL), Mary SheilaMary Sheila Abercrombie (McNeill), 82, passed away on the 9th of December, 2012 at the University of Alberta Hospital in Edmonton, Alberta. She was born in 1930 in Edmonton to Alexander and Violet (Kelley) McNeill.Sheila grew up in Edmonton. She graduated from Westglen High School. After high school she attended the Ontario College of Art, the Banff School of Art and the University of Alberta in Edmonton where she received a Bachelor of Arts degree and a teaching certificate. She was a member of the Delta Gamma women's fraternity. Sheila then taught at McKernan Jr. High school in the 1950s. Sheila married Bill Abercrombie in 1955. She was a long time member of the Environment Council of Alberta, columnist for the Red Deer Advocate and Sherwood Park News, and a historian. Sheila was active in many Strathcona County committees and received the Pride of Strathcona Reeve's Award for her community service. One of her great joys was over a half century of friendship with the women of 'The Group' with whom she would discuss books, social change, and politics.Sheila was preceded in death by her parents Violet and Alex; her sister Sandy; and dear friends Ann Stewart and Marie Hammond.Sheila will be truly missed and lovingly remembered by her son Bill Abercrombie and daughters Nora Abercrombie and Kelley Abercrombie; her cherished grandchildren Malcolm, Duncan, Alexandra, and Joseph; her daughter-in-law Laura Stevens, and son- in-law Gordon McRae. Sheila leaves behind cousins Kenzie, Jackie, Jane, and Jeanie, brother-in-law Leroy, and dear friend June Acorn.Following Sheila's wishes, cremation took place shortly after her death. A celebration of Sheila's life will be held in the Jasper Room at the Hotel MacDonald, 10065 - 100 Street, Edmonton from noon to 3:00 p.m. on January 15th, 2013. Dixie music will be played (Sheila's request: 'When the Saints Go Marching In'), stories will be exchanged, and a moderate amount of silliness will ensue. Anyone wishing to stay later may join the family in Confederation Lounge.Those who wish to leave their condolences may do so athttp://rememberingsheila.blogspot.caFor condolences, please visit www.fostermcgarvey.com