Ilion - Christina Rae Sheldon, 81, of Ilion, passed away peacefully on May 2, 2026, at Wynn Hospital in Utica, NY.

Christina was born on March 22, 1945, in Cold Spring, NY, a daughter of the late Ray D. and Emma Belle Daly Sheldon. She graduated from Sidney High School in 1963 and devoted several years to raising her children before returning to school to earn her bachelor's degree in Sociology from the State University of New York Institute of Technology in 1991, followed by her Master's degree from Syracuse University in 1996. She was a dedicated and compassionate professional who devoted more than 20 years of service to the New York State Department of Education in Utica, where she worked as a rehabilitation counselor, a reflection of her commitment to helping others lead fuller, more independent lives. She was a long-time resident of Ilion, NY and attended the First Baptist Church there for many years.

Family was central to Christina's life. She is survived by her loving children, Peter Thayer and his wife, Ann of Williamstown, WV; Matthew Thayer and his wife, Melissa of Falmouth, ME; and Christal Rae Thayer and her partner Gregory Varner of Ilion, NY; her cherished grandsons, Abraham Thayer of Boston, MA, and Simon Thayer of Falmouth, ME; one brother, R. Douglas Sheldon, Sr. and his wife, Eileen of Colonia, NJ; her sister-in-law, Carol Sheldon of Aiken, SC; and several nieces and nephews, R. Douglas Sheldon, Jr., Kirsten Sheldon, Alexandra Sheldon, Bethany Reesor, and Markus Sheldon.

In addition to her parents, Christina was predeceased by her brother, Stuart B. Sheldon, and her dear best friend, Ann Wicks.

Calling hours will be held Friday, June 19, 2026 from 12:00-2:00 pm, with a Memorial Service immediately to follow, officiated by Pastor John Partise, at the Whiter-Hendrix Funeral Home, 100 Otsego St., Ilion, NY 13357. Christina will be laid to rest alongside her parents in Roosevelt Cemetery in Pennellville, NY.

To leave condolences for Christina's family, please visit www.whiter-hendrix.com.