Sharon Joanne Nelson

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of our beloved mother and grandmother, Sharon Nelson, 82, who departed this world on March 15th, 2024. Sharon was a beacon of strength as she faced her recent health challenges with grace and resilience, finding strength in her unwavering belief in God’s plan. Her faith was a guiding light, illuminating the path for those fortunate enough to walk alongside her, and we take comfort knowing she is now at peace. 

Sharon was born on October 2, 1941, near Alta, IA, to Donald and Josephine Patterson. After graduating from high school in Alta, she moved along with her family to a farm near Tea, SD. It was here where she met and married the love of her life, Jeffery Nelson. The young couple moved to Sioux Falls to start a family. They were blessed with two boys and decided to raise them back in Tea. Sharon spent her working years at Dakota Industries and Sioux Valley Hospital until her retirement found her enjoying more time with her grandchildren and playing cards with the crew at the old Catholic church in Tea. 

Family was at the center of Sharon’s life, and she cherished every moment spent with her loved ones, especially her grandchildren. Whether Sharon (Share Bear, Gram Grams) was baking cookies and making peanut butter balls or attending ball games and concerts, Sharon’s unwavering support and unconditional love were a constant source of strength and inspiration to all. Sharon leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness and compassion that will shine brightly through all who knew her.  

Sharon is survived by her sons, Scott (Susan) and Steven (Melissa). Grandchildren, Maria (Tate) Stinger, Austin (Bree) Nelson, Alex (Alli) Nelson, Anthony Nelson, Andrew Nelson, Jordan Nelson, Max Nelson, Nelson Dingler, Maggie Dingler, as well as great grandchildren Jovelynn and Rozalynn Stinger, Brighton Nelson, and Parker Nelson as well as her brother, Ron Patterson. She is preceded in death by her husband, Jeffery Nelson, an infant son, her parents and her brother Rodney Patterson. 

A funeral service will be held at 11:00 AM Friday, March 22, 2024, at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tea, SD. Burial will follow at Hills of Rest Cemetery, Sioux Falls. Visitation with the family will be held from 5:00 to 7 :00 PM on Thursday evening, March 21, 2024, at Heritage Funeral Home, Sioux Falls, SD. 

Rest in peace, dear Grandma Sharon, knowing you were loved beyond measure and your legacy of love and memories will endure in our hearts forever.