Sharon Sue Taylor

Sharon Sue Taylor was an angel on earth. Anyone who knew her well would describe her as someone who spread light, love, and positivity in the world. She had a deep connection to nature and animals, wanted the best for everyone, and knew her purpose in life was to live with compassion, helping others. Even during her final hours when she was feeling her worst, she found strength to comfort her family, telling them exactly what they needed to hear, to feel at peace when she passed.

Sharon was born on March 26, 1951, in Eldorado, IL. Soon after, she was adopted by Roy and Edith Sullivan. They raised Sharon on a farm and she spent much of her childhood learning how to be a free spirit, how to have fun in the mud, how to reap what she sows, and how to care for and protect her favorite animals. All of these lessons carried with her throughout her life. The latter explains why her kids affectionately dubbed her Snow White. A fitting moniker for a woman whose doorstep welcomed creatures of all species. Whether it was a bird, turtle, opossum, raccoon, deer, cat, pig, or dog. They were all drawn to her and she treated each life with respect and kindness.

As a student at Crab Orchard High School, Sharon volunteered with children facing developmental challenges. This experience ignited her lifelong aspiration: to become a teacher. However, honoring her mom's wishes, she pursued a nursing degree at Southeastern Illinois College after graduating high school. For years, she graced the role of a compassionate nurse, tending to patients with unwavering care.

In 1968, fate intertwined her path with Raymond Taylor, the singular love of her life. The Vietnam War had marked him, but Sharon's gentle spirit and boundless compassion helped him navigate the scars of trauma. On August 7, 1970, they exchanged vows, embarking on a shared journey that spanned four children and 31 years, until Raymond's passing in 2001. In 1980, she left her career as a nurse and spent a few years as a stay at home mom. Her children have extremely fond memories of the fun days they'd spend together with her - walking, gardening, cooking, baking, sewing, drawing, painting, and more. She loved her children deeply and selflessly-constantly navigating ways to put their needs above her own-well into their adulthood. She was the absolute best mom. She raised her children in church, giving them the opportunity to establish core beliefs about the world around them and what lies beyond. As they became adults, she became their best friend, continuing to offer daily support as a mom would, but also showing new and fun sides to her very silly personality. As the late '90s approached, Sharon decided to pursue her lifelong dream. With determination, she worked full-time as a Teacher's Aide in Resource Rooms. In 1993, she returned to college, defying age norms to earn her B.S. in Education at the age of 47. Her dream job awaited-a classroom where she could make a profound impact. At Herrin High School, Sharon became a beacon of compassion and understanding for students with severe-profound disabilities. Her colleagues and the parents of her students recognized her exceptional dedication, nominating her for KFVS 12's Heartland's Best Teacher award-an honor she rightfully claimed in 2013. Physical health challenges led to Sharon's early retirement after only 15 years, but her legacy endured. Inclusion, love, and unwavering kindness were the cornerstones of her teaching journey.

Sharon's personal interests outside of work extended far beyond her passion for animals. As a gifted baker and cake decorator, she transformed flour and sugar into beautiful wedding cakes and whimsical birthday creations that delighted her kids and grandkids. The aroma of her sourdough bread and the taste of her cookies lingered in the hearts of those fortunate enough to savor them.

An artist at heart, Sharon worked in a variety of mediums, always sharing her creations with family and friends. She was also a talented seamstress who volunteered her time to create costumes for theatrical productions and who created one of a kind special occasion dresses for her daughters. She enjoyed sewing household items, too- like curtains, pillowcases, and quilts.

She loved to read books, often reading several lengthy Amish Mystery books each day. She'd lose herself in pages, savoring each mystery's twists and turns. Her evenings often included her favorite shows. From the camaraderie of M*A*S*H* to the heartwarming tales of The Waltons, from the streets of Chicago P.D. to the blaze of Chicago Fire, she found solace in fictional worlds. The steady rhythm of Law & Order, the intrigue of NCIS, and the sweet indulgence of baking shows entertained her evenings and distracted her from physical pain.

She wholeheartedly embraced her husband's and children's quirky sense of humor. They thought she was hilarious. At every game of charades, Sharon took center stage, infusing the room with laughter. Her voice messages were great-often jokes without punchlines, enticing you to call her back for the missing piece. "Truth or dare" with Sharon was unforgettable because she fearlessly tackled dares that had her kids and grandchildren laughing to no ends! Her laughter was infectious, her smile radiant, and her eyes sparkled like the brightest stars. She was pure joy. Her favorite holiday was Christmas because she loved to decorate, drive through neighborhoods full of lights, give gifts, spend time with family, watch Home Alone, Miracle on 34th Street, and celebrate her love for Jesus during candlelight services. Every Christmas spent with Sharon was exciting, memorable, full of fun, laughter, and love.

On warm summer days, windows down, she loved to drive through the country, reminiscing and sharing stories from the past. She enjoyed gardening, generously sharing her knowledge on the art of safely transplanting trees, flowers, and other botanical treasures from one spot to another. Undoubtedly, she possessed a true green thumb.

Travel, when her health allowed, was one of her favorite past times. She navigated highways and airports alone, teaching her children bravery, independence, and the thrill

of adventure. Across the country, she'd visit her kids and grandkids, share 'girls' weekends' with her daughters, explore new vistas, and savor life's offerings. She even experienced her dream vacation to Hawaii and absolutely loved it.

Sharon, affectionately known as "Grammy," was a beacon of love and devotion for her six grandkids. Their eyes would light up when they called her name, and she reveled in their joy. Distance was no obstacle for her; she'd travel hundreds of miles just to be in their presence. She loved seeking out unique treasures for each grandchild. Whether it was a whimsical toy, a heartfelt book, or a handcrafted trinket, Sharon's gifts were carefully chosen to ignite their imaginations.

Vincent Snyder, her grandson who lived nearby, was her kindred spirit. Weekends were their sacred time-laughter, shared secrets, and playful antics. They'd spend time in the living room, surrounded by purring cats, savoring BBQ delights, and playing card games. Together, they'd lose themselves in favorite TV shows, snacks, and caring for cats. Christopher, her eldest grandson, held a special place in her heart. They spent many summers together, swimming, attending Bible School, exploring the outdoors, and picking blackberries. Now, at 26, Christopher still anticipated her annual shipment of holiday cookies, each bite a nostalgic hug from Grammy. Zion and Holly knew they were loved by her, each visit filled with hugs and kisses. Zion enjoyed exploring Sharon's field and woods behind her home, picking blackberries with his Grammy. Holly shared a passion for cats and would know as many of the names as possible. Discovering kittens at Grammy's house was always special and a few were adopted by her grandkids, becoming cherished pets. Malcolm and Vivian, in California, became her partners in mischief. Hide-and-seek games lasted for hours and arts and crafts projects spilled across the kitchen table. Vivian's tiny hands would paint, while Sharon marveled at the magic of her creativity.

Sharon reveled in her role as Grammy. Her heartstrings were woven into theirs-their triumphs, their heartaches, their growth. She felt very blessed to have such sweet grandchildren. And so, Sharon-Grammy, confidante, and eternal cheerleader-will remain a cherished chapter in their lives, a legacy of love etched in the hearts of her grandkids forever.

Although she stood less than 5 feet tall and used a walking aid for the last few years of her life, she continued to be as mighty and strong as a giant-fighting numerous health issues that resulted in disability and constant chronic pain. Yet she woke up every day with an optimistic mindset, put on her imaginary boxing gloves, flexed her little arm muscles, and punched her health issues right in the noggin!

She was a devoted member of Pittsburg Freewill Baptist Church and attended for over 50 years. Much of her strength came from her complete faith in God and the support she received from her church family. She served as a compassionate Sunday School Teacher, nurturing young hearts with wisdom and kindness. In the nursery, her gentle touch comforted the little ones, leaving an indelible mark on their early spiritual journey. The church cantatas came alive through her creative spirit as she designed costumes that transported congregants to biblical times. Beyond these roles, Sharon selflessly volunteered her time, organizing and laboring at the church giveaway events. Her dedication was unwavering, fueled by a deep love for her faith community. And as a mother of four, she ensured that her children accompanied her to church every Sunday morning, Sunday evening, and Wednesday evening when they lived in her home-a tradition that bound their family even closer.

For Sharon, the Pittsburg Freewill Baptist Church was her second home, a sanctuary where she found solace, joy, and purpose. She cherished every soul who walked through those doors, forging lasting friendships and offering guidance to those in need. Safety enveloped her at church, but above all, it was faith that illuminated her path-a beacon that guided her through life.

In the quiet moments of prayer, she would surrender her trials to Jesus and praise him for her triumphs. The church became one of the defining highlights of her existence-a place where her heart overflowed with love and where she found her purpose. Sharon Taylor embodied strength, resilience, generosity, love, and compassion-a true blessing to her children. She not only guided her loved ones but also illuminated paths of goodness and serenity for others. As a daughter, wife, mother, teacher, and friend, she epitomized excellence. Those fortunate enough to know her now carry hearts fractured by her absence, for she was both endearing and a consistent source of positivity in their lives. Yet, the solace lies in the knowledge that her pain has ceased, and her unwavering faith in Jesus Christ propels us forward on our individual life journeys.

In precious moments on April 6, 2024, Sharon's pastor offered comforting prayers. Soon after, she expressed heartfelt goodbyes to her loved ones. Their souls now hold her words as cherished treasures, a legacy that will endure beyond time. Sharon's serene departure occurred on a quiet Sunday, April 7, 2024, within the walls of Herrin Hospital. Her journey was marked by both the fragility of life and the strength of love. Her daughters clasped her hands, kissed her forehead, ran fingers through her hair, providing comfort and solace. They told her it was okay to go. By her side, Daisy Kate, her loyal canine companion of 14 years, lay still, a silent witness to the transition. The room resonated with calming Christian melodies, weaving a gentle tapestry around her bed. With grace and serenity, she crossed the threshold into eternity, leaving behind pain and embracing the boundless peace of Heaven. The world lost a wonderful soul, but the light Sharon shared with everyone she encountered while on earth will keep shining bright-spreading goodness and love.

Family Who Went Before - Sharon was predeceased by Raymond Taylor (husband), Roy Sullivan (dad), and Edith Sullivan (mom).

Family She Left Behind - Her legacy lives on in the hearts of her beloved children: Kurt Taylor, Teresa Taylor Snyder, Randy Taylor, and Candace Taylor Snapp. She is also survived by two sons-in-law, Eric Snyder and Brian Snapp, and a daughter-in law, Suzanne Alexander Taylor-whom she loved and adored as if they were her own children. She cherished all six of her grandkids. Christopher, Zion, Holly, Vincent, Malcolm, and Vivian.

Pets She Left Behind - A loyal Chiweenie, Daisy Kate. Two silly cats who kept her company and kept her laughing, Birdie and Ivan-and numerous stray animals for which she provided havens of food and safety.

Celebration of Life services will be Saturday, April 27, 2024 at 11 am at Pittsburg Freewill Baptist Church with Rev. Eddie Donelson officiating. Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home in Marion is assisting the family with arrangements.

For those who prefer memorials may be made to the Special Olympics. Envelopes will be available the day of the service at the church or by mail to Mitchell-Hughes Funeral Home, 800 North Market Street, Marion, Illinois 62959