Sharon Jeanette Leeds
May 24, 2023
Sharon Jeanette Leeds, 79, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, April 28, 2023 surrounded by her loving family. Born October 3, 1943 in Pensacola, FL, she was the daughter of Roy and Hazel Etheredge. She is survived by her husband, Stephen Leeds, of 23 years; son, Vance Creighton (Fazana); stepdaughters, Stacie Leeds and Stephanie Sutton (Eric); sister, Diane Bradley (Bob); brother, Charlie Etheredge (Terri); grandchildren, Jordyn, Stephen, Lauren, Asher, and Kaden.
Sharon was a second generation graduate of Tate High School and was valedictorian of the Class of 1961. She earned her bachelor’s degree from Florida State University. After graduation, she began teaching at Tate High School. While teaching, she earned her master’s degree at the University of West Florida. She loved teaching and broadening her students understanding of science. Many of her students went on to become scientists and doctors. Later in her career, she was excited to teach the children of previous students, educating multiple generations. She held great pride in touching so many lives at Tate High School. Sharon retired from teaching in 1999 with well over 30 years in the classroom. She was ready to travel the world with her family and friends.
In addition to traveling, Sharon and Steve became very involved with planning the annual USS Bennington Reunion, a Navy aircraft carrier. Sharon had a huge love for FSU Baseball. They were season ticket holders and went to every home game where she kept her own ledger of statistics. Sharon loved to garden and had a green thumb. She could revive any plant and nurture it until it flourished. She loved to share this knowledge and love of plants with her family, especially her grandchildren. She also dedicated her life to the church and enjoyed singing in the choir at both Saint Luke United Methodist in Pensacola, FL and later at Deer Lake United Methodist in Tallahassee, FL.
A memorial service will be held on June 2, 2023 at Deer Lake United Methodist Church at 1pm. Sharon will be laid to rest at Saint Luke’s Columbarium by the family in a private service. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made in the name of Sharon Leeds to Saint Luke’s United Methodist Church or Deer Lake United Methodist Church.
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