Sharon Nelson Obituary

Sharon Gayle Nelson, age 82, of Howard, SD, died June 11, 2025, at Sanford USD Medical Center in Sioux Falls, SD. A memorial gathering will be 1-3 pm, Saturday, June 28, 2025, at Willoughby Funeral Home in Howard, SD. There will also be a memorial gathering 3-6 pm, Friday, June 27, 2025, at the VFW in St. James, MN.
Sharon Meyer was born September 9, 1942, in Chester, SD to Alvin and Marian (Kock) Meyer. She was raised in the Colton, SD area and graduated from Colton High School. She married Kirby Nelson on June 4, 1976, and together they built their life on Long Lake in St. James, MN. Sharon was an Avon representative, school cook, secretary at the NuWay Coop in Trimont, MN, caregiver at Whispering Winds and the friendly face multitasker at the Corner Pantry in Howard.
Survivors include five children, John (Julie) Nelson, Staples, MN, Dan (Jeanette) Nelson, Freeman, SD, Kim (Kip Pharis) Ness, Volga, SD, Lauri Nelson, Sleepy Eye, MN, Kris (Heather) Nelson, Castlewood, SD, and too many grandchildren and great-grandchildren to count. She was preceded in death by her parents, father and mother-in-law, Leonard and Corrine Nelson, and two grandchildren, Joshua and Nathan Nelson.
Sharon loved deeply and lived fully. She cherished her family and friends with all her heart, with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren holding a special place. Always full of energy, Sharon kept herself busy; when it was time to relax, she enjoyed throwing a line in the Missouri River. Known for her warmth and generosity, she could effortlessly prepare a five-course meal in an instant. She had a knack for making the most of everything-even a $10 bill, which she could stretch into hours of luck at the slot machines. A lover of all things purple, Sharon's vibrant personality will be remembered and missed by all who were fortunate enough to know her.
It's so hard when our time ends with the ones we hold most dear. We mourn the future memories we so easily imagine, while feeling intense gratitude for the past-the deep conversations late into the night, the perfect hugs, the total comfort. More than anything, the best moments were seeing her tear-filled eyes as she smiled grandly, bursting with love while her lifetime of memories shone through. She was the most beautiful person we've had the privilege of being loved by. With gratitude, we thank God for the heart of this family.
For many years, Sharon lovingly devoted herself as Kirby's primary caregiver. In recognition of the care she so selflessly gave, the family kindly asks that, in place of flowers, those wishing to honor Sharon's memory consider a donation to support Kirby's continued care.
www.willoughbyfh.com
– by cash or check:
Please make checks payable to Kirby Nelson
Mail to:
Kirby Nelson
609 N. Minnie St.
Howard, SD 57349
– via Venmo:
@Kris-Nelson-56 (please include "For Kirby's care" in the note)
https://venmo.com/Kris-Nelson-56
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