Sharon Louise Bart

Sharon Louise Bart (Russell), age 84, passed away peacefully on January 4, 2026, in Springfield, Missouri. Born on December 31, 1941, in Des Moines, Iowa, Sharon lived a life marked by unwavering faith, tireless dedication to her work, and deep love for her family and community.
Sharon was the proud owner and operator of Professional Services for over forty years. Her commitment to her clients was steadfast; even as her children encouraged her to consider retirement, she would respond with characteristic wit and conviction: "Where do you see retirement in the Bible?" Her work was more than a profession-it was a calling. She remained devoted to her business until illness made it impossible to continue. Through her work, she formed lasting relationships with countless individuals in the local community whom she served faithfully. In further commitment to her community, she was an Alderwoman for four years and served two terms as Mayor of Hollister, Missouri.
A woman of profound faith, Sharon's spiritual journey began early in life. As a child, she was the first in her family to accept Christ and soon led her parents to salvation. She began serving alongside her mother as a Sunday school teacher in their Iowa church-a role that would shape much of her life's purpose. Sharon loved sharing the Gospel and never missed an opportunity to speak about the Lord. Her days were grounded in scripture reading and prayer, and she found joy in ministering to others through both word and deed.
Sharon's devotion extended beyond her immediate surroundings. She gave faithfully to missions work, especially supporting her close friend Jenny in Paraguay. She delighted in hearing stories of salvations abroad and rejoiced at how people were receiving God's Word around the world.
At home, Sharon was a loving wife to Charles E. Bart until his passing. Together they raised their sons: Charles R. Bart (wife, Denice) and Brian E. Bart (wife, Stacy); and she cherished their daughters, Kim Berry (husband, Carl) and Diane Bart-Wells and family. Her legacy continues through her grandchildren-Nicole Egbeobauwaye, Amy Berry, Samantha Bart, and Greyson Bart-and seven great-grandchildren: Mikayla Dela Rosa, Veronica Dela Rosa, James Dela Rosa, Lorena Bart, Brandon Bart, and Joseph Egbeobauwaye, and others who brought joy into her later years.
She is also remembered by her brother, Gary Russell; niece, Cathy Robinson; nephew, Rick Russell; many great-nieces and nephews; and numerous friends whose lives were touched by her kindness and prayers.
Sharon had a special place in her heart for animals. Over the years she cared for many pets as well as any stray or hungry creature that crossed her path. Her compassion extended beyond people-it embraced all of God's creation.
She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Charles E. Bart; parents: Margaret Verden and Charles Russell; sister, Caroline Edwards; and brother-in-law, Robert Edwards.
Those who knew Sharon will remember not only her laughter and joy but also the strength of her convictions and the warmth of her prayers. She loved deeply, gave generously, prayed fervently, and lived each day with purpose rooted in faith.
May Sharon Louise Bart's memory be a blessing to all who knew her-and may those she touched find comfort knowing she is now at peace in the presence of the Lord she so dearly loved.
A celebration of life will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday January 13, 2026, at Cremations of the Ozarks, 115 Industrial Park Drive, Hollister, Missouri 65672. Services and arrangements are under the direction of Cremations of the Ozarks.