Sharon Jessee

Sharon Jessee, 86, passed away peacefully on November 9, 2026.

Sharon was born on December 26, 1939, in Harrison, Nebraska, to Lester Frank “Bunk” and Florence (Duffin) Eberspecher. She grew up surrounded by a close-knit, loving family and often shared fond memories of her childhood with her parents, siblings, cousins, and, eventually, nieces and nephews. Family was always at the heart of Sharon’s life, and those early years helped shape the loving, devoted woman she would become.

After graduating from Sioux County High School, Sharon began her teaching career at a country school before eventually moving to Denver, Colorado. It was there that she met Larry Joe Jessee, of Richland, Indiana. The two were married on May 13, 1964, beginning a life together filled with love, family, and faith.

Larry and Sharon made their home in Richland, Indiana, where they raised their children: Janet Lee and John Michael, who passed away in child birth, Jeffrey Alan, Jana Lynn, and Jason Michael. Sharon devoted many years to being a stay-at-home mother before later working at Luce Elementary School, where she continued doing something she truly loved—helping and caring for children.

Sharon found happiness in life's simple pleasures. She enjoyed spending time with friends, tending to her garden, reading a good book, and cheering on her beloved Indiana Hoosiers. She will be remembered for her quick wit, beautiful smile, and the warmth and kindness she shared with those around her.

Faith was an important part of Sharon's life. She and Larry were members of Abundant Life Community Church in Newburgh, Indiana, and her relationship with Jesus Christ brought her tremendous joy, comfort, and strength throughout her life.

Following the loss of her beloved husband, Larry, in 2001, Sharon eventually moved to New Albany, Indiana, to be closer to family. There, she embraced one of her most cherished roles—being “Memaw.” It was a title she wore with tremendous pride and a responsibility she took to heart. Her grandchildren were a constant source of happiness, and she poured her love into each of them. The memories she created and the love she gave will remain a lasting blessing to her family.

Sharon is survived by her three children, Jeffrey Alan Jessee, Jana Lynn Winkler (Rob), and Jason Michael Jessee (Jeanette); her beloved grandchildren, Jess Happel (Austin), Jake Lemon (Jenna), Joe Lemon, Aaron Jessee, and Lauren Betts (Andrew); and her great-granddaughter, Jovie Logan.

She was preceded in death by her loving husband, Larry Joe Jessee; her infant children, Janet Lee and John Michael; her granddaughter, Logan; her parents, Lester and Florence Eberspecher; and her siblings, Joann Carnahan, Jane Lewis, Mary Semroska, Kathy Brayton, and Jim Eberspecher.

Sharon leaves behind a beautiful legacy of love, laughter, faith, and family. While she will be deeply missed, her family takes comfort in knowing that the love she shared, the lessons she taught, and the memories she created will live on for generations to come.

Funeral arrangements: Visitation will be held from 11-1 Central time on Friday, November 27 at Boultinghouse Funeral Home in Rockport, Indiana with a service to celebrate her life at 1pm. Burial to follow after service.

Memorial contributions: In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hosparus of Southern Indiana or Gospel Mission Church 513 Elm Street, Rockport, Indiana 47635.