Sharon Liggett Obituary
On the evening of Saturday, December 7, 2013, Sharon Liggett passed peacefully into the loving arms of her Lord and Savior, at her home, just as she wanted, following a courageous battle with cancer.
Sharon was born on June 16, 1942 in Hanford, California, the first of four children to Jack and Katherine Ryan. Sharon lived most of her younger years in El Paso, Texas while her parents worked for the railroad. During her high school years, she moved back to Hanford and graduated from Hanford High School in 1960. Through a friend she met the love of her life, Lee Liggett, and the two were married in July 1961. They lived briefly in Hanford before settling in with their family in Laton.
Throughout her life, Sharon was devoted first and foremost to her family. Even during her devastating illness, she was always more concerned about her loved ones than herself. She was a cherished friend, sister, mom, and grandma who always had a smile and kind words of encouragement for those she loved. During her life, Sharon was very involved with the Laton school district, from volunteering in her children's classrooms, working with the PTC, watching sporting events, running the concession stand, volunteering at sporting events, and serving on the school board.
Sharon also found time to work in part-time and full-time jobs. She worked at First Presbyterian Church in Hanford in many capacities over many years, but most currently as the Office Manager. Sharon also worked at the Kings Art Center and enjoyed her time there. Sharon was involved in many organizations throughout her life such as APA (a national Presbyterian secretarial organization), SPCA, National Modified Midget Racing Association, and Laton Boosters. She will always be remembered as the Pampered Chef lady as it was a joy for her to share her infinite knowledge and expertise in her cooking skills.
The way Sharon lived her life also made her a role model and continuing source of inspiration for her family and the many people who came into her life. Her faith, character, strength, determination, and humor, particularly as she battled her illness, serve as an enduring legacy for those who knew and loved her.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, and her husband, Lee Liggett.
Sharon is survived by her daughter, Lisa Matson and her husband Scott, of Fresno; her son, Ryan Liggett and his wife Lyssa of Fresno; her grandchildren, Meghan Moebes, Elizabeth Matson, Nikki Betancur, Delaney Matson, and Matthew Liggett; her sister, Jolee Wallace, of Crossville, Tennessee; her brother, Michael Ryan and sister, Colleen Sottosanti, of Tuscon, Arizona.
A memorial service will be held in celebration of her life at First Presbyterian Church in Hanford on Saturday, January 4 at 10:00 a.m. with a reception to follow in the fellowship hall.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to Calvin Crest Conferences, 45800 Calvin Crest Road, Oakhurst, California 93644-9614.
Published by The Hanford Sentinel on Dec. 24, 2013.