Sharon Thibodeaux

Sharon S. Thibodeaux, a beloved mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend, passed away peacefully on December 7, 2024, at her home in DeRidder, Louisiana. Born on July 24, 1945 to the late Azor Shirley, Sr. and Essie Chevalier Shirley, Sharon lived a life rich with love and creativity that touched the hearts of everyone she encountered.
Sharon was the devoted wife of James Allen Thibodeaux for an incredible 58 years, until his passing. Together they built a beautiful family filled with laughter and cherished memories. She is survived by her two sons: Greg Thibodeaux and wife Melissa of DeRidder, and Tim Thibodeaux and wife Penny of Elmer; her daughter Stacy Thibodeaux Nortman and husband Tim of DeRidder. She is also survived by six grandchildren: Garrett Thibodeaux (Amanda) of Mint Hill, NC, Alyson Thibodeaux Cognevich (Matt) of Walker, Alayna Thibodeaux of Baton Rouge, Wes Thibodeaux of Glenmora, Will Thibodeaux of Glenmora, and Collin Nortman of DeRidder, as well as one great-grandson, Duncan Cognevich of Walker.
A true outdoorswoman at heart, Sharon found joy in nature's beauty, whether it was tending to her garden or in the arena riding horses. Her creative spirit shone brightly through her passions for crafting, woodworking, carpentry, and drawing – anything that inspired her imagination.
Cooking was another way Sharon expressed love – a warm meal, especially rice and gravy that everyone could count on – shared around the table became a tradition where stories were exchanged and bonds strengthened. Known for never meeting a stranger or turning away someone in need of help or companionship made Sharon not just a friend but also an anchor within the community.
She will be deeply missed by all who knew her kind heart and generous soul, including many nieces and nephews.
Preceded in death by both parents, brothers Azor Shirley, Jr., Clyde Shirley, and Charles Shirley, and her husband James, Sharon leaves behind not only family but countless friends whose lives were enriched by knowing such an extraordinary woman.
Visitation will take place on Wednesday, December 11th at Labby Memorial Chapel in DeRidder beginning at 10:00 am until service time at noon, led by Rev. George Lee Glass, alongside Rev. Sam Burchard. Pallbearers will be Garrett Thibodeaux, Wes Thibodeaux, Will Thibodeaux, Collin Thibodeaux, Brandon White, and Marty White, and Honorary Pallbearer Jack White. Interment to be at Talbert-Pierson Cemetery located in Pitkin.
In our hearts forevermore rests the memory of Sharon S. Thibodeaux – a beacon of light whose love radiated far beyond what words can express.