Sheila A. Chlanda, remarkable music industry career
Sheila A. Chlanda of Lewes passed away peacefully at home Monday, Dec. 16, 2024, after a courageous battle with congestive heart failure. Born in New York City, N.Y., March 12, 1936, she was the beloved daughter of Muriel Connolly and Joseph Chlanda.
Sheila spent most of her life in Manhattan, where she forged a remarkable career in the music industry. In 1966, after working various jobs, she began her journey at Columbia Records as a secretary. Her exceptional talent, dedication, and charisma quickly earned her a promotion to record promoter, where she worked closely with radio stations nationwide to bring the music of iconic artists to audiences across the country. Sheila's success was reflected in the Gold and Platinum records that adorned her home, a testament to her instrumental role in the careers of countless artists. She retired in 1991 as the national director of promotions for Sony Records, leaving behind an indelible legacy in the industry.
In the same year she joined Columbia Records, Sheila met the love of her life, Phyllis Zwarych. Together, they shared 58 beautiful years of love, adventure, and unwavering devotion. Sheila and Phyllis created cherished memories in their homes in Manhattan, Huntington (Long Island), Montauk, Cutchogue, Boynton Beach, Florida, and Lewes, always surrounding themselves with family, friends, and the joys of life.
In 2008, Sheila relocated to Rehoboth Beach, to be near her sister, Judy Schopmeier, and her husband Manfred, as well as to enjoy the coastal life she loved. Sheila embraced her time at the beach, where she delighted in surf-fishing, walking along the shore, and soaking in the beauty of nature. A lifelong learner and enthusiast, she enjoyed traveling, playing pinochle, reading, and watching football and tennis. Sheila was an active member of Cape Henlopen Senior Center in Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Senior Activity Center, forming meaningful connections within her community.
Sheila is survived by her devoted partner, Phyllis Zwarych of Lewes; her brother, Kimberly Chlanda, and his daughter Zoe of Deer Park, N.Y.; her nieces, Melanie Putch (Robert), and their sons Andy and Adam of Oakton, Va., and Anneliese Jacobson (Mark), and their daughters Hannah and Sara of Flemington, N.J., and her nephew, Dirk Schopmeier (Lucy) of Richmond, Texas. She was predeceased by her parents, Muriel and Joseph Chlanda; and her sister, Judith Schopmeier.
Sheila's warmth, kindness, and radiant smile will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and colleagues. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
In lieu of flowers, Sheila wished for donations to be made in her name to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, P.O. Box 50, Memphis, TN 38101-9929.
