President, Liz Drew said Ms Sheehy was a New Zealand bridge legend, well-known from the Cape to Bluff.
"During her nearly 60 years of bridge, Frances has been on the New Zealand board, president of Otago/Southland and bridge clubs and has been involved in teaching the game to many people.
She is a Silver Grand Master and has represented New Zealand in Australia, Venice and Singapore."
Bridge club member Peter Mountain said the bridge club very rarely made people life members.
"You have to be quite the historic figure within bridge," he said.
The club has 130 members and travels to tournaments all over the South Island.
Mr Mountain said the club was on a recruitment drive.
"New members, young and old, are most welcome to join us," he said.
Contact the Oamaru Bridge Club for further information.
