Sharon M. Benson

The Life Story of Sharon Mildred Marie Benson

Sharon Mildred Marie Benson, affectionately known to many as "SherSher," was born on November 28, 1952, in Norristown, Pennsylvania, to the late Earl H. Lyles, Sr., and Mabel L. Sutton-Lyles. From the very beginning, Sharon's life was marked by purpose, creativity, and a deep, abiding love for God that would shape every season of her journey.

Growing up in Norristown, Sharon's gifts began to surface early. During her middle school years, she gained recognition throughout the community for singing "Alfie" by Dionne Warwick. It was during this time that many of her cousins and friends outside of the church first recognized her exceptional vocal talent, a gift that was clearly heaven-sent. What began as a song soon became a calling.

As her love for music deepened, Sharon committed herself to excellence. She traveled extensively to music seminars, workshops, and services, participating in various organizations and House of God Church Conventions, including gatherings in Lexington, Kentucky. These experiences not only refined her artistry but also made her known across the United States as a powerful and anointed singer, songwriter, and dancer.

Beyond music, Sharon was gifted with her hands. She had a passion for baking, especially cakes, and pursued culinary classes in cake decoration. Her beautifully crafted and delicious baked goods were enjoyed by countless church members, family, and friends. She was also a talented seamstress, skillfully making clothing for herself and for others, blessing many through her creativity and generosity.

Sharon's heart for people extended even further through her role as a foster parent, opening her home and her heart to children in need. In her early adult years, she was also a dedicated and sacrificial mother, working three jobs while raising her son and serving troubled youth at Wordsworth Academy. Her life was a living example of perseverance, compassion, and unconditional love.

Driven by faith and determination, Sharon later traveled to California, bringing her son with her, to pursue opportunities in her singing career. She sought the bright lights and big stages, but soon realized that path was not the one God intended for her-at least not in that way. With wisdom and clarity, she returned home, trusting God's direction for her life.

Sharon had known Charles Benson for many years through the singing circuit and music programs. Their shared love for music and ministry eventually led to marriage. From their union came their daughter, Candace, and soon after, their family was blessed with Karen. Together, Sharon and Charles formed The Benson Family Singers, ministering through song as a family and glorifying God through their gifts.

As a mother, Sharon was intentional and visionary. She personally trained Candace in singing and showmanship, later enrolling her in various music conservatories and higher education programs, ensuring she was grounded in classical training-both vocally and instrumentally. When Candace turned professional at the age of 12, Sharon stepped into the role of manager, proudly becoming known as her "Momager."

Mother and daughter learned the music business side by side, even attending Montgomery County Community College together, where they were affectionately known across campus as the mother-daughter duo. Sharon took great joy in witnessing her children follow in her musical footsteps. She was filled with excitement and exuberance as she watched them grace television singing competitions such as Sunday Best, perform in stage plays, and pursue professional music endeavors. She also celebrated the talents of Terrance, who sang in wedding bands, stage plays, and other musical settings such as Give Me the Mic.

Above all, Sharon Mildred Marie Benson was a Holy Spirit–filled woman of God, a faithful friend, devoted sister, loving wife, nurturing mother, and a source of encouragement to many. Her life was a melody of faith, sacrifice, creativity, and love.

Sharon was preceded in death by her beloved husband Charles Benson; her parents, Earl Lyles, Sr., and Mabel Sutton-Lyles; her brother Earl Lyles, Jr.; and her sister Arlene Lyles.

She leaves to cherish her memory her children: Terrance Lyles, Candace Benson, Karen Benson, and William Bright; her siblings Patricia Osifeso, Linda West, and Timothy Lyles; along with a host of extended family, friends, church family, and all whose lives were touched by her extraordinary gift and unwavering faith.

Though her earthly song has ended, Sharon Mildred Marie Benson's melody lives on-echoing in the hearts of those she loved, inspired, and led closer to God.