Introduction: Who Was Sheila Buckley?
Sheila Buckley, born in the 1940s, is best known for her role in the infamous John Stonehouse affair that shocked Britain in 1974. As Stonehouse’s secretary and later his second wife, she became entangled in one of the most audacious political scandals of the 20th century. After assisting him in faking his own death, Buckley faced legal consequences but later rebuilt her life. Today, she enjoys a quiet existence away from the public eye. Sheila’s story continues to captivate, representing a complex figure in British political history.
Sheila Buckley’s Early Life
Little is known about Sheila Buckley’s early years. She was likely born in the 1940s and raised in the UK. Details about her childhood and family background are scarce. However, she pursued a career in administration and soon found work as a secretary.
In the early 1970s, Sheila began working for John Stonehouse, who was a prominent figure in the British Labour Party. Their professional relationship quickly became personal. Buckley became Stonehouse’s mistress, setting the stage for a political scandal that would capture the world’s attention.
The Affair That Changed Everything
Sheila Buckley’s affair with John Stonehouse was more than just a personal relationship. It had far-reaching political consequences. At the time, Stonehouse was still married to Barbara, his first wife, but he was also deeply involved with Buckley. Their affair lasted for five years, making Buckley not only his confidant but also his accomplice.
Stonehouse faced financial problems and a tarnished political career. In 1974, desperate to escape his debts and the scandal surrounding his personal life, he hatched a wild plan. He staged his own drowning in Miami, leaving behind a pile of clothes on the beach to make it appear as though he had died.
This was the beginning of a daring escape plan, and Sheila Buckley was part of it. Stonehouse and Buckley fled to Australia under false identities. But the plan soon fell apart.
The Stonehouse Fiasco
Stonehouse’s elaborate escape plan unraveled quickly. The couple’s flight to Australia was noticed when a suspicious bank teller in Melbourne recognized Stonehouse. His cover was blown, and he was arrested soon after.
Sheila Buckley was also implicated in the hoax. She was arrested and charged for her involvement in the scheme. The consequences were severe. She was later sentenced to a two-year suspended prison sentence. The Stonehouse scandal captured global attention, and Buckley became known as the accomplice in one of the most audacious political schemes in British history.
What Happened to Sheila Buckley?
After the Stonehouse scandal, Sheila Buckley’s life changed forever. With Stonehouse imprisoned, she stepped away from the media spotlight. However, when he was released in 1979, the two rekindled their relationship. They married in 1981.
In 1982, the couple had a son, James William John Stonehouse. While Stonehouse struggled to recover his political credibility, Buckley focused on their family life. Despite their efforts to maintain privacy, the media continued to follow their every move.
Stonehouse passed away in 1988, leaving Sheila to raise their son alone. After his death, Buckley retreated even further from the public eye. She chose a quiet life, away from the scandal that had defined her for so long.
Where Is Sheila Buckley Now?
As of today, Sheila Buckley is still alive. She lives in Romsey, Hampshire, in a detached house valued at approximately £700,000. She has chosen to live a peaceful, private life. Little is known about her daily activities, but it’s clear that she enjoys gardening and leading a quiet existence.
Following John Stonehouse’s death, Sheila worked as an accountant and bookkeeper to support herself and her son. She hasn’t sought media attention and continues to live away from the public eye.
Sheila Buckley’s Family: Life After Stonehouse
Sheila Buckley’s son, James William John Stonehouse, was born in December 1982. He grew up away from the media frenzy that once consumed his parents. Buckley worked hard to provide him with a stable, private life, shielding him from the public spotlight.
James has remained largely out of the public eye, and there is little information about his life today. However, it’s clear that Sheila has remained focused on giving him a normal upbringing, far from the chaos of her past.
The Cultural Impact of the Stonehouse Scandal
The Stonehouse affair continues to captivate people’s imaginations. Even decades later, it remains a fascinating chapter in British political history. The scandal has been revisited in numerous documentaries, books, and dramas. In 2022, the ITV drama Stonehouse dramatized the events surrounding the faked death, including Sheila Buckley’s role.
The series brought renewed attention to Buckley, played by Emer Heatley. While Sheila herself has remained largely out of the limelight, the drama reignited interest in her life and the extraordinary events that defined her past.
FAQs
Where is Sheila Buckley now?
Sheila Buckley currently resides in Romsey, Hampshire, in a detached home. She leads a quiet life, away from the public eye.
Is Sheila Buckley still alive?
Yes, Sheila Buckley is still alive. She continues to live privately in Hampshire.
What happened to Sheila Buckley after John Stonehouse’s death?
After Stonehouse’s death in 1988, Sheila Buckley withdrew from public life. She worked as an accountant or bookkeeper to support herself and her son.
Who is Sheila Buckley’s son?
Sheila Buckley’s son is James William John Stonehouse, born in 1982. He has stayed out of the public spotlight.
What role did Sheila Buckley play in the Stonehouse scandal?
Sheila Buckley was heavily involved in John Stonehouse’s plan to fake his own death. She was later sentenced to a suspended sentence for her involvement.
Conclusion
Sheila Buckley’s life will always be tied to one of the most extraordinary political scandals in British history. From her role in the affair with John Stonehouse to her life as a widow after his death, her journey has intrigued generations. Though she has sought to live in private, her legacy continues to be explored and remembered as part of the dramatic Stonehouse saga.
