Monsignor William J. Scheyd, 85, died peacefully on May 28, surrounded by his family and friends at Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of the Clergy Residence where he resided for the past nine years.
Monsignor William J. Scheyd
A priest of the Diocese of Bridgeport for 60 years, Monsignor Scheyd was born and raised in Bridgeport and attended St. Ann’s Elementary School and Fairfield Prep. He completed his seminary studies at St. John Seminary in Boston, and later earned a Master of Divinity degree from the Boston Theological Institute. Monsignor Scheyd served in parishes throughout Fairfield County, including St. Mary Parish and St. Thomas the Apostle Parish in Norwalk, St. Augustine Cathedral in Bridgeport, and Saint Aloysius Parish in New Canaan. For 15 years, he served as Vicar General of the Diocese of Bridgeport, working closely with the bishops of the diocese and assisting on various diocesan committees and boards.
Active in ministry well past his retirement in late 2016, Monsignor Scheyd had a variety of other interests including cars and travel (including trips to the Holy Land, a trip to Rome where he had the honor of meeting Pope John Paul II). In addition to the many hats he wore as a Monsignor and Vicar, he also could be found on the beach every summer wearing a large straw hat and reading a book. Monsignor Scheyd was not only recognizable within the community for his good work, but also known instantly in public for his famous “mutton chops” sideburns.
Monsignor loved spending time with those he loved, especially his sister and her family in Fairfield, who enjoyed dinners together religiously every Thursday. He enjoyed summer vacations to the shore where he focused on being an amazing brother and uncle. He enjoyed good conversation with friends and family accompanied by delicious food. Monsignor loved to show off his cooking skills, and was particularly adept at omelets, and barbequed fish and shrimp. His passion for food extended well past his waistline to the most vulnerable, and he always made sure that no one in his community went hungry. He found great joy in serving the larger community in his role as Fire Chaplain, a position he held for 37 years in Norwalk, and 15 years in New Canaan. He also served as Norwalk Police Commissioner in the late 70s and early 80s.
Msgr. was extremely generous, and was always willing to lend a hand. Whether assisting first responders when tragedy struck, ministering to the injured, or supporting wherever help was most needed, his first priority was always caring for others. Blessed with a great sense of humor, he loved to laugh, and always viewed the world through a positive lens, urging others to do the same. His greatest gift was his ability to genuinely comfort others. His dedication to his Catholic faith was great, and he lived his life with purpose, bringing the strength and hope that comes from faith in Jesus to so many parishioners, friends, and strangers. He took great pride in helping to create Malta House, a residence and ministry for single moms and their babies.
Monsignor Scheyd is survived by his beloved sister, Barbara Scheyd Lasko; his nephew, Gene (Lynne) Lasko; nieces Anne (Steven) Barletta, Margaret (Michael) Harrigan, and Mary (David) Campbell; twelve grand-nieces and nephews; and one great-great-nephew. He was predeceased by his parents, William and Pauline Scheyd.
Visiting hours will be held on Monday, June 2 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Saint Aloysius Church, 21 Cherry Street, New Canaan, CT., followed by a Mass at 7:30 PM. A Mass of Christian Burial will be offered on Tuesday, June 3 at 11:00 AM at Saint Aloysius Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a gift to Malta House, 139 W Rocks Rd, Norwalk, CT 06851 in Monsignor Scheyd’s memory. For directions or online guestbook, please visit: www.Magnerfuneralhome.com.
(This obituary appeared on Legacy.com.)
Msgr. Scheyd married us and was a delightful instructor for pre-Cana aside from being a dedicated pastor. He showed great practicality, humility, a sense of humor and a very strong ability to relate to his congregation. It was clear he was filled with love for the people and for God. May God and our lord Jesus bless you, and keep you, and may you rest in peace!
Monsignor Scheyd was the celebrant at the St A’s Christmas Mass we attended last year. He delivered a wonderful Christmas message in his homily and was still very much “on top of his game”.
When Monsignor Sheyd was the St A’s pastor, he drove down to Waveny Care Center late one night on a hunch to visit my ailing Dad who woke up on Monsignor’s arrival. They said the Lord’s Prayer together and several hours later my Dad passed away. Our family will always remember what a kind, giving and inspirational leader Monsignor Sheyd was.
Rest In Peace Monsignor. Thank you for being you.
Monsignor Scheyd made being a Catholic for a young kid feel “cool”. He was relatable, funny, and was a reminder that being a man of God doesn’t always mean being untouchable and serious.
He was my friend and long after I moved away from New Canaan he would ask my Mom how I was doing.
He knew I had my “issues” but he was not a man of judgment and thus he never judged me but instead related to me and cared for me even when I was long out of his life physically.
He was the kindest and most authentic priest that I’ve ever met.
He is still rocking those mutton chops right now as we speak. His body may have gone, but his kind soul will live forever.