Sharon Kathleen Sheeley (April 4, 1940 – May 17, 2002) was an American songwriter notable for her contributions to pop music. Born in Newport Beach, California, Sheeley was a pioneering female songwriter who achieved significant success at a young age. She wrote "Poor Little Fool," which became Ricky Nelson's first US No. 1 hit and the first No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, making her the youngest woman to write an American number-one hit.

Sheeley collaborated with notable artists such as Glen Campbell, Brenda Lee, and Eddie Cochran. Her relationship with Cochran was both personal and professional, as she wrote several songs for him, including "Love Again" and "Cherished Memories." She also co-wrote "Somethin' Else" with Cochran's brother, Bill. Her songwriting credits extended to Ritchie Valens with the song "Hurry Up."

In 1960, Sheeley survived a tragic car accident in the UK that resulted in Cochran's death. After returning to the United States, she partnered with Jackie DeShannon, producing hits like Brenda Lee's "Dum Dum" and "Heart in Hand." Sheeley also co-created the ABC TV series Shindig! with her husband, Jimmy O'Neill, whom she later divorced.

Sharon Sheeley passed away on May 17, 2002, in Sherman Oaks, California, after suffering a cerebral hemorrhage. Her legacy as a trailblazing female songwriter endures through her timeless contributions to music.