Sheila Cheimets, former MMA director, dies at age 75

Sheila Cheimets, a former executive director of the MMA, passed away on Oct. 30 at age 75.

Cheimets was the MMA’s executive director from 1989 to 1991, having previously served as the association’s legislative director for many years.

Cheimets had also served on the Board of Selectmen in Canton, where she was the first woman elected to the board. She was also the first woman to serve as legislative director and executive director at the MMA.

She was once a reporter for, and then the editor of, the Canton Reporter.

“She was a friend and mentor to many current and past MMA staff members,” said MMA Legislative Director David Baier, who worked with Cheimets for many years. “She was an indefatigable supporter and defender of local government. Sheila brought energy and intelligence to everything she did, especially if she was engaged in a political argument.”

Cheimets lived in the South End of Boston in recent years, having previously lived in Canton and Onset. She was active in the Chester Square Neighborhood Association.

She leaves her husband, David, as well as three sons and four grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at the Boston Symphony Hall, Higginson South Hall (251 Huntington Ave., Boston) on Sunday, Nov. 6, from 4 to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Boston Parks and Recreation Department, c/o Fund for Parks and Rec., Chester Square Park, 1010 Mass Ave., Boston, MA 02118.