Sheila Duncan Irby, 78, of Key West, Florida, passed away peacefully on November 29, 2025, after a courageous battle with cancer. Fierce, loyal, courageous, devoted, and generous, Sheila will be remembered for her strength of spirit and her dedication to caring for others.

Born on August 28, 1947, in Key West, Sheila was a proud Conch. She graduated from the Convent of Mary Immaculate in 1965 and attended Barry University before returning home to join her parents in running the family business, Duncan Auto Sales, where she remained an integral part of its success until the business was sold in 2017.

After her retirement, Sheila remained active in her faith and community. A devoted member of the Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea, she spent countless hours in perpetual adoration and found deep purpose in supporting others. She helped to facilitate the Basilica's bereavement group and compassionately guided families through the process of planning funerals for their loved ones—a ministry that reflected her empathy, kindness, and generosity.

Fierce and courageous, Sheila also had a creative and lively spirit. She loved making beaded jewelry for her friends, cooking for her family, and cheering for her favorite teams—the Miami Dolphins and Florida Panthers. Her warmth, humor, and generosity touched countless lives throughout Key West.

Sheila is survived by her husband of 51 years, Ron Irby; niece, Jennifer (Bernardo) Barrios; sisters-in-law, Patti Irby and Carolyn Irby (Ronnie Herrera); and brother-in-law, James (Glenda) Irby, nephews, Glenn and Jeffrey Irby and her caregiver Winsome Daley, to whom the family extends their deepest gratitude for exceptional and loving care.

Sheila was preceded in death by her parents, Earl and Orchid Duncan and her sister, Charlotte Duncan White.

The family also offers heartfelt thanks to the compassionate team at Amedisys Hospice, as well as to Hermine Joyeau, Nicole Lloyd and Aida "Cookie" Sellers and all who supported Sheila with love and kindness.

A funeral Mass for Sheila will be held on Tuesday, December 9, at 11:00 a.m. at the Basilica of Saint Mary Star of the Sea. A private family burial will take place following mass. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Basilica of St. Mary Star of the Sea.