We mournfully announce the death of Sarah Elizabeth Shapleigh (66) of Chicago, Illinois, January 17, 2021. She was born to Elizabeth and Lloyd P. Shapleigh, Jr. in Boston, Massachusetts.    Sarah is survived by her mother Elizabeth, sister Lisa (Martin) Koepke, sister Becky (Irwin Myers), and sister Laura (Bill) Shaffer. Nieces Lydia Koepke (Luke Misiejuk), Rebekah Shaffer, and nephews Jonathan (Michelle) Shaffer, godson Alex (Young) Koepke, great nephew JJ, and great niece Ava.  Sarah lived a full and vibrant life. Her friends and family meant the world to her. Her love of cats started in childhood with Minnie Boy. Other feline favorites were Xerox, Moose Boy, Prince Valium (PV1) and PV2. Sarah moved to Chicago in the late 1970's after receiving a BFA in Studio Art from Michigan State University. In the 1980's she returned to school, working towards an MA in Art Therapy and later obtained a CADC certification in substance abuse counseling. She graduated from Jane Addams School of Social Work, University of Illinois with an MSW focusing on adult mental health. She worked in Uptown providing agency and residential work. In 2001 she began working in private practice.  In addition to her counseling career, Sarah was a fine artist. She produced many inspired drawings, paintings, and collage work. Friends and family looked forward to receiving her unique cards. Sarah knew how to find fun. She loved movies, theatre, books, the Chicago Cubs, cultural events, and shared wonderful recommendations with her friends and family.  She loved travelling to Maine, where she summered as a child, and kept the tradition going through her entire life.   Sarah was an inspiration at family gatherings. She always told great stories, and came prepared to share fun art projects for everyone to enjoy. There was never a dull moment when Sarah visited. She knew how to keep conversations going and the laughter flowing.   Sarah made the world a better place by helping others through her professional career and being a source of joy to friends and family. On Saturday, February 13, 1pm - 3pm EST Sarah’s family invites you to attend a virtual memorial service and live reception via Zoom to celebrate her life. Please request the zoom link from ricky@caringcremations.com. Memorials may be made to your local Pet Adoption agency, the Shapleigh Family Association, PO Box 146, Kittery, Maine 03904 or the charity of your choice.