Sister M. Annette Sheaffer, OP

Sister M. Annette Sheaffer, OP, a Dominican Sister for 68 years whose teaching ministry spanned more than six decades, died peacefully on Sunday, February 8, 2026, surrounded by her family and her Dominican Sisters. A gifted educator and woman of deep kindness and quiet joy, Sister Annette leaves a lasting legacy of faith, learning, and compassion.

Born Jeanne Anne Sheaffer in Stockton to Edwin K. and Nell Fields Sheaffer, she came to consider Vallejo her true home after her family moved there during her childhood. She entered religious life in 1957, becoming Sister M. Annette, and later earned a Bachelor of Arts in English along with a Standard Elementary Teaching Credential. At her final profession, she chose the ring motto Caritas, accompanied by the cross—values she lived faithfully throughout her life.

Sister Annette’s ministry in education unfolded across Northern California in diverse settings. She was widely known for her collaborative spirit, creativity, tireless work ethic, and her genuine ability to connect with young people. Her life also reflected deep devotion to family and community.

She will be remembered as friendly, congenial, and deeply kind—always ready with a warm smile or gentle word that made community life brighter. Sister Annette was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Janell June Anderson; and two nephews, Tim Cook and Tim Sheaffer. She is survived by her sister Judy Cook; brothers Edwin K. Sheaffer III and John Mark Sheaffer; numerous nieces, nephews, grand-nieces and nephews, great-grand-nieces and nephews; and her Dominican Sisters.

A Mass of Resurrection will be celebrated on February 27, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. in the Gathering Space of the Dominican Sisters of San Rafael (1520 Grand Avenue, San Rafael). Zoom option available. For Zoom link and to learn more about the life of Sr. Annette, visit: www.sanrafaelop.org/our-sisters/we-stand-on-their-shoulders. Burial will follow at 1:00 p.m. at St. Dominic Cemetery in Benicia.

Memorial gifts in Sister Annette’s honor may be made to the Care of the Senior Sisters Fund, Dominican Sisters of San Rafael, Advancement Office, 1520 Grand Avenue, San Rafael, CA 94901, or online at sanrafaelop.org/get-involved/ways-to-give.

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