Sheila Kurth Svoboda

Sheila Kurth Svoboda (nee Kurth) was born on February 17, 1959, in Waukegan, IL, and passed peacefully, after a long illness, on September 28, 2023, in Akron, OH.

A Memorial Service is scheduled for October 29, 2023, 3:00 PM, at Westminster Presbyterian Church, 1250 W Exchange St., Akron.

She was a lifelong childhood and parenting educator who graduated from Northern Illinois University with a degree in Early Childhood Education. She later transitioned education focus to ministries with children and families. During her years in religious education, Sheila brought a spirit of innovation and adventure to her ministry with children, adults, and families. She introduced “Godly Play” storytelling and activities into the Church School curriculums of two congregations; provided parent education programs; and, loved leading adults in theological reflection in the four-year “Education for Ministry” Lay Ministry training program. She shared ministries in Park Ridge, NJ; Medina, OH; and, two congregations in Akron. OH. She will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by family, friends, and the church communities she served.

Sheila is survived by her husband, Gordon J Svoboda II, two stepsons and a daughter-in-law, a daughter and son-in-law, and three grandchildren. Gordon and Sheila were married for 38 years.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation for a memorial bench in Sheila’s honor in the Community Garden at the Metro Parks Science Center on the Towpath at Summit Lake, either online at foundation.summitmetroparks.org or by check made payable to Summit Metro Parks Foundation, with Sheila Kurth Svoboda in the memo line, and mailed to 975 Treaty Line Rd., Akron, OH 44313.

Mark 10:13-16

13 People were bringing little children to him in order that he might touch them; and the disciples spoke sternly to them. 14But when Jesus saw this, he was indignant and said to them, ‘Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. 15Truly I tell you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it.’ 16And he took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them.

Services in care of The Billow Funeral Homes & Crematory, Fairlawn Chapel, 85 N. Miller Road, Akron, OH  44333.