Tributes Paid To Long-Serving RSPCA Isle Of Wight Volunteer Sheila Keen

The RSPCA Isle of Wight has paid heartfelt tribute to one of its longest-serving supporters, Sheila Keen, who passed away last month after decades of dedicated service to the charity.

Sheila’s connection with the branch began in the 1970s, shortly after she moved to the Island with her husband and two children.

The family went on to run a much-loved book and antiques shop in Ventnor, quickly becoming familiar faces within the community.

Following her retirement, Sheila and her family were invited by the RSPCA to help open a small charity shop next to what is now the organisation’s Ventnor High Street store.

It marked the beginning of her tireless support for the branch. Working alongside a committed team of volunteers, she helped grow the shop into the thriving fundraising hub it remains today.

Over the years, Sheila adopted Heidi the Schnauzer and two cats, Bella and Donna, and regularly hosted Open Garden events to raise funds for animals in need.

Even after stepping back from the shop in the 1990s to care for her husband until his death, she continued to champion the RSPCA’s work in her own creative ways—writing poetry, painting, crafting handmade cards and selling them locally to support the charity.

Incredibly, at the age of 96, Sheila published her first book, Geriatric Nostalgia, a collection of poems written to bring joy to others while raising money for the branch.

Her determination and generosity never waned, and throughout her lifetime she raised significant funds to help vulnerable animals across the Island.

Rebecca from the RSPCA Isle of Wight said:

“Sheila was a wonderful lady and a true inspiration—her kindness and love for animals never faltered.

"She had the best sense of humour, and a deep compassion for everyone around her.

"She contributed so much to our charity; we are incredibly grateful and won’t forget her dedication.”