He was born Nov. 26, 1931 in Granite City, the son of the late Phillip Henry and Edna Marie (Willis) Sheridan, and attended elementary and high school there. In 1953, he graduated from St. Ambrose College in Davenport, Iowa, and then attended the Pontifical Gregorian University in Rome where he earned a degree in theology. He was ordained at North American College in Rome on Dec. 16, 1956 by Bishop Martin J. O'Conner, rector of the North American College.

In 1964 he completed graduate studies at the Pontifical Lateran University in Rome where he earned a degree in canon law. He was given the title Prelate of Honor to His Holiness (Monsignor) by Pope Paul VI on April 26, 1974. His assignments included: parochial vicar at St. Matthew Church in Alton (1957-1960); vice chancellor in Springfield (1960-1961); vice chancellor (1964-1974); chaplain at St. Joseph Home for the Aged in Springfield (1964-1989); chancellor (1974-1984); vicar general/moderator of the Curia (1984-1989); moderator for the Alton Deanery Council of Catholic Women (1989-2004); administrator of Springfield diocese (1983-1984); and pastor at Immaculate Conception Church in Pierron and St. Nicholas Parish, Pocahontas (1989-2005); promoter of justice in the diocesan Tribunal (2003-2005). He retired from active ministry in 2005.

In addition to his parents he was preceded in death by his sisters, Dolores M. Sheridan and Margaret M. Rehagen; and his brother, Phillip H. Sheridan.

He is survived by his sister, Mary Ellen Becherer of Granite City; numerous nieces and nephews.

The funeral Mass was celebrated Jan. 18 at Holy Family Church in Granite City, with Msgr. Virgil Mank as celebrant and Bishop Thomas John Paprocki and Father Jeff Holtman concelebrating. Burial was in Calvary Catholic Cemetery, Edwardsville.

Memorials are suggested to Masses or St. Joseph Home in Springfield.

Irwin Chapel, Granite City, was in charge of arrangements.