It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Shelia Raye Tankersley (nee Camp) of Memphis, Tennessee, who passed away peacefully at the age of 79 on April 16, 2026. Shelia, born on October 31, 1946, was raised in Water Valley, Mississippi, and was a proud member of the Whitehaven High School Class of 1964.

Driven by a promise to a dear friend lost to AIDS, Shelia founded Loving Arms in 1991. What began as a group of volunteers rocking newborns in the hospital grew into a pivotal non-profit supporting women and children affected by HIV and AIDS. After serving as Director for 13 years, she transitioned to the Shelby County Rape Crisis Center, where she continued her legacy of helping the community's most vulnerable members for five years before resigning to care for an ill family member.

A 1998 recipient of the Women of Achievement "Determination" Award, Shelia was known for her "superhero wisdom" and her fearlessness—famously proving to herself that if she could walk on hot coals, she could do anything. A cornerstone of the Memphis LGBT community, she was a dedicated advocate who spent decades fostering spaces of acceptance and support. She was the heart of every room she entered, known for her sharp wit, her love of sharing stories and laughter over a game of cards with friends, and her impeccable fashion.

Shelia is preceded in death by her mother, Lillie Christine Camp; her son, Joe Tankersley; her daughter-in-law, Michelle Hooks; and her brother, Russell Camp. She is survived by her partner of 30 years, Chris Sinnock; her brother, Robert Camp (Terry); her children, Selena Campbell (Jim), Michael Tankersley (Josie), and Lynne Hall (Switchie); grandchildren Leslie, Jared, James, Ashley, Peyton, Abigail, and Addilyn; and her great-grandson, Connor.

Shelia's memorial service will be held on April 22, 2026, at High Point Funeral Home in Memphis at 12:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to local organizations supporting women and the LGBT community, continuing Shelia's lifelong mission of service.