Last updated on: October 13, 2025
John Sheeran is the father of global singing sensation and songwriter Ed Sheeran. But before his son shot to international fame, John had established himself as a renowned figure in the art world. He is an accomplished art curator, lecturer, and exhibition organizer with over 40 years of experience. His life is one of creativity, dedication, and family affection.
Quick Facts About John Sheeran
| Full Name | John Sheeran |
| Birthdate | 1960 |
| Occupation | Art Curator, Exhibition Organizer, Lecturer |
| Husband/Wife | Imogen Sheeran |
| Education | Studied Art and Design |
| Age | 66 years old |
| Parents | William Sheeran (father), Anne “Nancy” Mulligan (mother) |
| Grandchildren | Jupiter Seaborne Sheeran, Lyra Antartica Seaborn Sheeran |
| Children | Sons: Ed Sheeran, Matthew Sheeran |
| Net Worth | <$1 million |
| Birthplace | London, England |
| Nationality | British |
| Ethnicity / Heritage | Irish |
| Residence | Suffolk, England |
Early Life and Background
John Sheeran was born in London, England, to parents with strong Irish heritage. His father, William Sheeran, was from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and his mother, Anne “Nancy” Mulligan, was from Wexford, Ireland. John was immersed in the Irish way of life and music as a youth. These values of family and culture remained with him throughout his entire life.
He subsequently shared that passion for Irish heritage with his son, Ed. Indeed, Ed’s hit song “Nancy Mulligan” was composed as a tribute to John’s mother and their family heritage.
Education and Career in Art
John developed an interest in art at an early age. He studied Art and Design and eventually made it his lifelong profession. Throughout his years, he became renowned as an art curator, consultant, and educator. He collaborated with museums, art galleries, and educational institutions, educating others about and making them appreciate art.
In the early 1990s, John and his wife Imogen Sheeran established an independent art advisory firm named Sheeran Lock. They operated it in collaboration for approximately 20 years, from 1990 to 2010. Their business involved coordinating art exhibitions, providing art guidance, and facilitating creative endeavors. The collaboration of the couple integrated their strengths perfectly—John’s expertise in art and Imogen’s artistic ability.
Family and Parenting
John and Imogen Sheeran had two sons, Ed Sheeran and Matthew Sheeran, in Suffolk, England. While Ed turned out to be a singer-songwriter, Matthew became a classical composer. Music, art, and creativity filled their home.
John was a disciplinarian but loving father. He instilled in his children a sense of hard work and what he desired for his children was that they pursued their interests to the letter. When Ed began performing at low-key gigs, John would transport him to performances himself and urge him to continue. John was supportive of Ed’s ambition but kept him grounded.
The Sheeran family was one where imagination was encouraged. John and Imogen both encouraged their sons to pursue artistic careers and not give up on their aspirations.
Life After 2007
During the financial crisis of 2007–2008, John’s professional life evolved. He started paying more attention to local projects in Suffolk rather than traveling frequently. During this period, he developed a passion for delivering public art lectures.
He merged art history and storytelling, which enabled individuals to see how art relates to daily life. John used to refer to this as his “perfect job” since it permitted him to communicate his passion and remain near his family.
Curating “Made in Suffolk”
John organized a special show titled “Ed Sheeran: Made in Suffolk” in 2019. The show commemorated Ed’s rise from a small-town lad to one of the world’s largest music stars. The show featured photos, gig tickets, early sketches, family memories, and personal items. It revealed how Ed’s creativity was shaped by his roots and family.
This project meant a lot to John. It not only was a tribute to Ed’s career but also showed the love and support of the Sheeran family.
READ ALSO: Ed Sheeran Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
Legacy and Influence
John Sheeran’s impact on Ed is evident. His love for art, his diligent work ethic, and his pride of being Irish all influenced Ed’s personality. Ed has always attributed his freedom to dream and the ability to be strong and work hard to his parents.
John remains in Suffolk, lecturing and appreciating art. He lives a modest, earthy life with culture and creativity.
