The name Shelia is of English origin and is believed to have emerged in the late 19th century as a variant spelling of the more traditional name Sheila. The name Sheila itself is derived from the ancient Celtic word "sile," meaning a blind or defective person. This seemingly negative connotation may have arisen from the belief that those with physical impairments were blessed with inner vision or spiritual insight.

In the early 20th century, the name Shelia gained popularity as a distinct name, perhaps due to its more modern and unique spelling. One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Shelia can be found in the 1901 census records of England and Wales, where a handful of individuals were listed with this spelling.

One notable historical figure who bore the name Shelia was Shelia Gillies (1894-1979), a Scottish writer and poet who was celebrated for her works in the Scots language. Her collection of poems, "The Twisting Trail," published in 1923, received critical acclaim and helped to preserve the rich literary traditions of Scotland.

Another prominent individual with the name Shelia was Shelia Hancock (1933-present), a British actress and author. She is best known for her roles in numerous television series and films, including her BAFTA-winning performance in the 1983 film "Monty Python's The Meaning of Life." Hancock has also authored several memoirs and novels, showcasing her versatility as a storyteller.

In the field of sports, Shelia Mulkey (1943-present) made her mark as a professional golfer on the LPGA Tour. Hailing from the United States, Mulkey won four tournaments during her career and was inducted into the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame in recognition of her achievements.

Shelia Centilie (1909-1985) was an American artist and illustrator whose works captured the essence of everyday life in the mid-20th century. Her illustrations graced the pages of numerous magazines and publications, and her paintings are held in the collections of several museums, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.

Finally, Shelia Bryson (1945-present) is a notable figure in the field of education. She served as the Chancellor of the University of Maryland Eastern Shore from 1984 to 2000, becoming the first African American woman to hold that position. Her leadership and commitment to diversity and inclusiveness left a lasting impact on the university and the community it serves.