Sharon Ezell

Sharon Ezell, 72, passed away July 25, 2016 at Renown Medical Center, Reno NV. Sharon was born August 1943 in Maywood, CA to John and Ione Frye.

Sharon spent her teen years in Centralia, Washington and graduated from Centralia High School. She was awarded a band scholarship to play the clarinet at Pacific Lutheran University (PLU) where she earned a Bachelor’s of Arts in a record three years. Later in Sharon’s career she obtained a certification in Social Work. In 1996, she attended University of Nevada, Reno and earned a Master’s in Public Administration.

After graduation from PLU, she moved to Astoria, Oregon and began her career as a social worker working in children’s services for the state of Oregon. While living in Astoria, Oregon she met a wonderful man, Bill Ezell who became her husband and lifelong partner of 51 years. Bill and Sharon were married in Centralia, Washington and eventually settled in Nevada to raise their family. She continued to be an advocate for children when she moved to Nevada in 1969, working for the State of Nevada Welfare’s children’s services and adoption program. Sharon then transferred to the State of Nevada’s Division of Health and Human Services. She held several positions that allowed her to provide leadership and improved care for residents of Nevada. These positions included Deputy Administrator Aging Services, Deputy of Licensure and Certification, and Deputy Administrator for the Nevada State Health Division. Sharon retired from state service after dedicating 30 years of service to the citizens of Nevada.

Sharon had a full life during her retirement. She was an active participant at the Dance Spirit Studio and served as the “head seamstress” for several years. Sharon enjoyed antique furniture, opalescent glass, and vintage jewelry. She rented a small space at the Carson Antique Mall and later at the Cheshire Store in Gardnerville selling antiques. She enjoyed working and becoming acquainted with folks that shared her loved of antiques.

Sharon had several other hobbies such as researching family genealogy and playing the piano but her favorite activity was spending time with her grandchildren and watching them become successful individuals. She applauded everyone’s success and provided encouragement when things didn’t go quite as planned.

Sharon will be dearly missed by her husband of 51 years, Bill Ezell, her son Bill Ezell (Patty), daughter Laura Cooper (Kent) and son Brian Ezell (Kristi), sister- Cathy Sturdevant, sister- Mary Frye, grandchildren (Nicholas, Samantha, Katie May, Kaitlynn, Alexandria, Matthew, Eric, Andrew, Lillian, Chance, Mallory and Bobbie) and three great grandchildren.

In keeping with Sharon’s wishes there will be no services.