Sharon Stone

Sharon Stone, born on March 29, 1939, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026. She leaves behind a legacy marked by dedication to education, unwavering love for family, and a profound commitment to community service.

Sharon’s life began with journeys across the country as the beloved daughter of Floyd and Alma Cody—her father’s military service instilled in her both resilience and an adventurous spirit from an early age. These formative experiences created cherished memories, many deepened by family vacations, particularly those spent in Kansas every other year for decades. Sharon’s childhood was also enriched by strong educational roots; she graduated from North Quincy High School in Massachusetts, where she would soon meet her future husband, Thomas Stone. They crossed paths as high school sweethearts, each another’s prom date and confidant. Life led them in different directions for a time, but fate reunited them in Taft, California, after Thomas’s military service. Their enduring love culminated in marriage on July 20, 1968, at the North Quincy United Methodist Church in Massachusetts—a union remembered dearly by all who knew them.

Education was Sharon’s calling and vocation. After earning her bachelor’s degree in education from Bridgewater State College in Massachusetts, she went on to achieve her master’s degree in elementary education from Kansas State University in Manhattan, Kansas. Sharon first began teaching in Taft, California, even as she pursued her own studies. Upon completion of her master’s, she committed herself to the Holbrook, Massachusetts, community, where she inspired students and colleagues alike during a teaching career that spanned more than 35 years. Her warmth as a teacher and fierce advocacy for education touched countless lives, establishing Sharon as much more than a classroom leader—she was a beacon for her learners’ growth and success.

Outside the classroom, Sharon’s generous nature radiated through her service at the South Yarmouth United Methodist Church, where she took pride in roles such as financial secretary, head of the Careabouts, and volunteer in the church thrift store. Her creativity flourished in hobbies like ceramics, painting, and quilting, which she often shared with friends and family.

Above all, Sharon was the heart of her family. Christmas was a cherished tradition, always celebrated together with joy and heartfelt connection. Holiday gatherings and travels alike were sources of lasting memories and laughter for her loved ones. She is survived by her devoted daughter, Darla Stone and her husband Carl Stone; her caring sister, Rada Elegant; and her beloved niece, Haley Elegant; as well as a host of other cousins, nieces, and nephews. Sharon is reunited in rest with her dear husband Thomas Stone, and her parents, Floyd and Alma Cody, whose memories she honored throughout her life.

Sharon’s proudest accomplishments were her family and her teaching career. She is remembered as a supportive teacher, a loving mother, sister, aunt, and step-grandma, and an advocate who inspired all around her to keep learning and caring.

A funeral service will be held on August 15, 2026, at 12:00 PM at Johnson & Mass-Hinitt Funeral Home, 203 N Washington St, Junction City, KS 66441. This will be followed by a graveside service at 1:30 PM at Ashland Cemetery, McDowell Creek Road, KS 66502.

Sharon Stone’s memory will forever be cherished by her family, friends, former students, and all those whose lives she touched through her kindness, dedication, and love.