Sharon K. Edwards

Sharon Kay Edwards, 72, passed away on Sunday, November 30, 2014, at Hickory Creek at Lebanon, surrounded by her family and the loving staff, who had cared for her for the past five years.Sharon was born in Indianapolis, on April 11, 1942, the daughter of Lorena Mae (Kincaid) Edwards and the late Burnice Ruhl Edwards. She was born weighing just over two pounds and was later diagnosed with cerebral palsy. She overcame many obstacles in her life and met each and every challenge with courage. She lived for most of her life in Lebanon at the home of her mother.Sharon was one of God’s very special people and despite her physical challenges, had a long and very productive life. She was known by all for her wonderful smile, her laughter, and her beautiful singing voice. She loved her family and visiting with family and friends was the joy of her life. Sharon especially loved her aunts, uncles and cousins, many of whom have gone on before her. She adored her mother who cared for her most of her life in their home, until the last few years, when she required nursing care. She also took great interest and pride in the activities of her sister and brother-in-law, and her two nephews and their families. They were her pride and joy.Sharon worked for ARC, previously the Sheltered Workshop, for over thirty years, starting in the late 1960s when it first opened. She was a dependable and hard worker and made many friends during her years there. She participated for many years in Special Olympics. She enjoyed singing and had a beautiful voice, singing solos at church, and in the last few years, singing at Hickory Creek on many occasions. One of her favorite songs was “Jesus, Use Me”, and that He did. She was a blessing and inspiration to so many lives that she touched. Even in her last days at Hickory Creek, the staff said many times they could hear Sharon’s voice ringing through the halls at night. Sharon also enjoyed crafts, and in her younger years, she would make potholders, latch hook and embroidered items. Many of her family and friends were recipients of her beautiful handiwork.Sharon, more than anything, loved to attend her church and was a faithful member of Grace Baptist Church, until her health prevented it. Still, she would look forward to the church services that were held at the nursing home, and attended every one, until her last few days.She is survived by her devoted mother, Lorena Edwards of Lebanon; her sister, Debbie Strychalski, and brother-in-law, Chuck Strychalski of Lebanon. She is also survived by two nephews and their families, Joseph and Carol Strychalski of Dayton, Ohio and Christopher and Heather Strychalski and a great niece, Addie Strychalski of Northville, Michigan.She will be greatly missed by her family and friends.Visitation is planned for Tuesday, December 2, 2014 from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. at Myers Mortuary, 1502 North Lebanon Street, in Lebanon, Indiana.Funeral Services will be held on Wednesday, December 3, 2014, at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home in Lebanon, with Pastor Jason Grubbs and Pastor Ken Collins, officiating.Interment will follow services at Oak Hill Cemetery in Lebanon. Memorials may be made in Sharon’s memory to the music ministry of Grace Baptist Church in Lebanon.