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Shelia Strachan was born on December 26, 1948, in Nassau, Bahamas as the first of seven (7)
children. Growing up and as a child she was known to have a care-free, fun-loving nature, and nothing
bothered her. At the age of sixteen (16) she met and fell deeply in love with a hometown boy named Erwin
Johnson and her life would be irrevocably changed. Shortly thereafter, the couple wed and from their
union produced eight (8) children; five (5) girls and three (3) boys. For Shelia, the marriage would be
tumultuous, violent, and unfulfilling. Eventually and due to her faith, her devotion to God, and because of
the unlimited love for her children she was able to escape the abusive marriage in 1982.
After nineteen (19) long years and unable to endure the abuse any longer, Shelia made the
difficult and life-changing decision to end the marriage, leave her home and island of birth, and never,
never return, but she did not leave empty handed. Not knowing how she would survive she left with all
of her children and stepping out on faith alone came to the United States in 1982.
The years between 1982-1992 proved to be extremely difficult and incredibly challenging but with
the help of her six (6) siblings; three (3) brother and three (3) sisters who lovingly supported her and opened their
homes for her and her children she was able to survive. Shelia immediately found a
church and soon became a member with all her children. Shelia was on her way to achieving
the American Dream but would still have to overcome many
major obstacles. Shelia had to get a job and a place to live so that all her children could be under the same
roof. She worked three (3) different jobs, enrolled in school to get her GED, and never complained. The
years swept by and within four (4) years after her arrival to the U.S. Shelia was able to see her four oldest
children (all girls) enroll in college. She was incredibly happy but knew that there was still a lot more to be
done and through unwavering faith in God continued on her journey. Even though at times she felt she
could not endure anymore and wondering how long she must carry this burden, she continued to
persevere knowing that He would never leave or forsake her. She secured employment in Miami-Dade
County Public Schools, enrolled in college, and made the decision to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in
Elementary Education.
Her positive personality and penchant for helping others was known wherever she went and as a
result she was called upon often for support and for prayers. Twenty-plus years later and this island girl,
mother of eight (8), survivor of spousal abuse, and who was homeless was now a US citizen, the Author
of a book titled “What If She Knew She Was Powerful” the proud grandmother of seventeen (17)
grandchildren, one (1) great-grandchild, counsellor to four (4) sons-in-law, one daughter-in-law and living
her best retired life!
Although many things have changed throughout the years two things remain constant; her
unwavering faith in God and her devotion to her children. Her strong faith and “don’t quit” attitude are
deeply imbedded in her children and grandchildren and is evident in everything she does. Shelia takes
pride in knowing that her five daughters have earned a doctorate degree, a specialist degree, and several
master’s degrees while her two sons have earned bachelor’s degrees, and one son is proudly serving his
country as a US Marine. To her family she is a living legend and considered the glue that binds them all
together, Shelia was happily married to Mr. Jerry Peters for several years until his unfortunate passing.
As to the next chapter of her life.... well stay
tuned, but we know that whatever it is and with the Lord at her side she will no doubt accomplish it
and more!