In Loving Memory of Sheba
a.k.a. Sheebs, Shebatta Bread, Sheebins, and Heebie-Sheebies
“Small but mighty.”
Sheba lived a long, storied life—nearly twenty years of gentle authority, quiet comfort, and endearing quirks. A cat of many nicknames and a presence far larger than her five-pound frame, Sheba didn’t just live in her home—she reigned in it. And like any good monarch, she offered care, warmth, and the occasional judgmental stare… all beneath the blankets, of course.
Originally adopted by family, Sheba came to live with her final human guardian at the wise age of twelve. It wasn’t a planned adoption, but it was an easy decision. Sheba had been known and loved since she was a kitten, and when her former family could no longer keep her, the idea of her entering a shelter at that stage of life was unthinkable. So she was welcomed into a new home, and in doing so, she became more than a pet—she became a legacy.
Despite her age and size, Sheba had a lion’s spirit. She was the “Old Lady” of the house and, in truth, something of an eldritch being—ancient, wise, and possibly immortal. For nearly eight years, she watched over her household with her crackly purrs, her deep, monosyllabic voice (narrated lovingly by her humans), and a preference for being buried beneath the covers with only a soft “merp” to give away her location.
Sheba’s connection with her family ran deep, especially with Sefi, the family dog. When Sefi came home as a puppy, Sheba helped raise her with feline discipline and affection. When Sefi had surgery, Sheba was right there—checking on her, sniffing her gently, and curling up beside her as if to say, “I’ve got you.” Their bond was unshakable.
Sheba was a professional cuddler and a part-time therapist. If her human sat down, Sheba appeared. If they lay down, she was already in place—by the neck or curled into the crook of an arm. Her purring, her warmth, her sheer presence could mend moods and soften the sharp edges of even the hardest days.
Sheba’s circle included not only Sefi but also Kathryn and K—housemates who loved her deeply and often became secondary cuddle targets when her primary human was unavailable.
Sheba wasn’t just the first pet solely under her human’s care—she was a teacher of responsibility, presence, and love. And while her body may have been small and her voice low, her impact was enormous.
Sheba didn’t outlive us all—but she certainly left a legacy as if she had.
