Sheldon Rhinehart, of Orange and formerly of Hamden and Waterbury, passed away peacefully Thursday, Jan. 26, 2024, in Yale New Haven Hospital. Sheldon was born Sept. 25, 1930, in Scotch Plains, NJ and raised in Waterbury, CT. The son of the late John Quincy Rhinehart and Elmer Burke, he was 1 of 7 children, 5 brothers and 2 sisters.
His long career of 46 years at the USPS starting as a sub clerk in 1954 was full of barrier breaking accomplishments that culminated in 1986 to his promotion as the first African American Postmaster of Meriden, CT and in 1993 first African American Postmaster of New Haven, CT. He remained in that position until his retirement in 2000.
He enjoyed a long and active retirement, devoting much of his time to numerous roles at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, where he was a member for 50+ years. His legacy of impacting people during his 93 years of life lives on in the memories and impressions he left on anyone that he had met.
Mr. Rhinehart is survived by his wife of 59 years, Carolyn Rhinehart; son, Sheldon Rhinehart Jr; daughter, Deborah Moniz; son in law Joseph Moniz; granddaughter, Shalia Harris; his brother, Norris Rhinehart; sister-in law, Donna Rhinehart; and numerous nephews and nieces.
Gathering hours will take place in his honor on Saturday, Feb. 17 at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church; 111 Whalley Ave, New Haven CT 06511 from 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. and the service will proceed at 10:00 a.m.
