Sharon Louise McCandless

Sharon Louise McCandless, (known by many as "Nanny"), age 79, of Wilmington, passed away Friday, November 7, 2025, after a very short stay in Bethesda North Hospital after a very brave battle with chronic illnesses. She was born January 7, 1946, in Wilmington, the daughter of the late Harold Eugene and Betty Jean (Vanscoy) Wade. Sharon graduated from Wilmington High School in 1964, she had worked at International Paper for 25 years until her retirement. Anyone that knew "Nanny" knew that she enjoyed crafts, reading, and was a true crime fan. More than anything, she adored her family and loved spending time with them. Sharon is survived by her loving husband of 60 years, William McCandless, to whom she married August 7, 1965 in Wilmington; children, Jennifer (Darrin "Dave "DeWeese) Floyd, James "Jimmy" (LaVonne) McCandless, and Jeanell (Mark "Melvin" McConnaughey) Knauff; grandchildren, Samantha Floyd, Jamie (Kurtis) Boggs, Justen Floyd, Kristen (Bryan) Jeffers, Sierra Knauff, Jarrett Knauff, Maegan (Chris "Drew") Taylor, and James Knauff; sister Emily Jean (Paul) Brown; son-in-law Robert Knauff; and several great grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and fronds. Along with her parents, she was preceded in death by two brothers, William Dean Wade and Harold Gene Wade; sister Jewell Arlene Arnold; nephew Sean Arnold; and brother-in-law William Arnold. The family is planning a time to celebrate Sharon's life; the time and date will be announced. Brown Funeral Home, Wilmington, is assisting the family. To leave an on-line condolence, please visit www.arehart-brown.com, or see our Facebook page, Brown Funeral Home.
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