Sharon Elaine Johnson

Sharon Elaine Johnson, born Sharon Mays on April 5, 1955, in Austin, Texas, to Helen Margaret and Floyd Mays, passed away peacefully on April 2, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Ardmore, Oklahoma. She was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose warm heart and loving spirit touched all who knew her.

Sharon attended Reagan High School in Alvin, Texas, where she laid the foundation for a life defined by dedication and kindness. She embarked on a career in the food industry, serving with distinction as a longtime manager of the Sonic Drive-In in Alvin, Texas. Her professional journey was marked by loyalty and adaptability, as she relinquished her career to accompany her husband through various moves across Oklahoma, Texas, and Arizona, reflecting her steadfast support and partnership.

Above all, Sharon cherished her family. As a loving mother and housewife, she devoted countless hours to nurturing and caring for our son, especially during times when I worked long hours. A fabulous cook, Sharon delighted in preparing delicious meals that brought joy and comfort to our family gatherings—an expression of her deep love and generosity.

Her personality was vibrant and sincere. Sharon was outspoken and unafraid to share her views, a quality greatly admired by those closest to her. She was a lifetime companion to me her husband, Paul L. Johnson, of 31 years—a dedicated partner whose loyalty, kindness, and love were unwavering. Sharon’s warm heart extended beyond family to include her beloved pets, with a special place reserved for her cherished dog, Zoe.

Sharon found joy in the simple pleasures of life—long phone conversations with family in Austin and Alvin, Texas, and watching her favorite television shows such as Judge Judy, Divorce Court, and Jerry Springer. These small joys painted a picture of a woman who valued connection, laughter, and love.

She leaves behind her loving husband, Paul L. Johnson; mother, Helen McCarther, daughter, Nicole Mays-Cole; sons, Jermain (Schlyn) Mays and Paul Q. Johnson;  seven grandchildren, Dariah Elaine Cole, Zachary Andrew Cole, Daylon Jermain Mays, Faith Marie Mays, Nevaeh Jolene Mays, Jayden Thomas Hill-Mays, and Jasmine Renae Hill -Mays; brother, Randy (Debra) Mays; sisters, Rhonda Mays and Karen McCarther; sister-in-law, Rae Mays; brothers-in-law Fred (Elnora) Johnson, Dennis Johnson, Dan (Vivian) Johnson, Everice (Nakeisha) Johnson, Joseph Herbert; sisters-in-law Loraine Johnson and Zella Johnson; as well as an extended family of relatives and cherished friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her father, Floyd Mays; mother and father-in-law, Jerlene and Fred L. Johnson Sr.; brother-in-law James Johnson; sister-in-law, Florene Johnson Herbert; and nephews, Brandon Spence and Quentin L. Stephenson.

A viewing to honor and remember Sharon Elaine Johnson will be held on April 10, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. at Kirk Funeral Home, located at 6 E Street NE, Ardmore, Oklahoma 73401. Funeral services will follow on April 11, 2026, beginning at 11:00 a.m., at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church, 3089 Mount Pleasant Road, Ardmore, OK 73401.

Sharon’s proudest accomplishment was being a loving wife and a devoted mother to her children and grandchildren, a legacy that will continue to live in the hearts of all who knew her. Her loss leaves a profound void, yet her memory will endure as a shining example of love, strength, and unwavering devotion. She will be missed immensely, but forever held in the hearts of her family and friends.