Sharon Spradley
Age - 78
November 15, 2023
Sharon Kay Clayborn Spradley, 78, of Deer, passed away Tuesday, November 15, 2023, at the Circle of Life Hospice House in Springdale. On a serene and beautiful fall morning in November, the world bid farewell to a beloved soul. Sharon Kay Spradley, born on May 13, 1945, in the heart of Deer, Arkansas, transcended to eternity with grace, with the love of her life, Larry, by her side. Sharon's journey began in the embrace of Millard and Blanche Cowell Clayborn, who nurtured her with love and values that would shape a remarkable life. She embarked on a love story for the ages when she married Larry on September 4, 1965, they were together for 58 years, two months, and ten days of shared laughter, trials, and unwavering commitment. Their union blossomed into a family of joy, comprising two daughters, Melissa King (Bob) and Lana Villines (Robbie). Sharon reveled in the love of her four grandchildren, Lacy Smith (Clayton), Kayce Holt (Michael), Colton King, and Makenna King. Anticipation filled her heart for the arrival of two great-grandchildren, Addisyn Smith and the eagerly awaited Rowdy Holt (expected in February 2024). Sharon's roots were firmly planted in Newton County, with only a brief hiatus of six months at Ft. Sill, Oklahoma. Her journey through life was marked by the passing of her parents, Millard and Blanche, as well as her brother, Wallace Clayborn and sister, Ivon Case. However, she is survived by a tapestry of love woven through her husband, daughters, and siblings, R. B. Clayborn, Jim Clayborn, Jerry Clayborn, Mary Edgmon, Ilah Morrison, and Nedra Daniels, alongside a multitude of nieces, nephews, and great-nieces and nephews. Sharon's favorite pastime was a reflection of her simple joys - exploring flea markets and thrift stores for dishes and cookbooks, even though they were seldom used for their intended purposes. She cherished family time, especially with her grandchildren and great-granddaughter, and she was excited to greet her great-grandson in February. Sharon, a staunch advocate for education, inspired her daughters and grandkids to pursue knowledge with passion and dedication. For an incredible 55 years, Sharon dedicated herself to the Deer/Mt. Judea School District, leaving an indelible mark on generations of students and colleagues. Her journey within the educational realm saw her evolve from a library aide to a secretary and bookkeeper, serving seven superintendents and one interim superintendent. Sharon's spiritual journey began at an early age, illuminating her path with faith and devotion to Christ. As a little girl, she earned a cross pendent from her Sunday school teacher for her remarkable ability to memorize Bible verses, marking the inception of a profound connection with her spirituality. At home and within her office walls, the soothing notes of old-style gospel music resonated, a testament to her deep-rooted love for spiritual hymns. Sharon believed in the transformative power of prayer and, true to her convictions, practiced it daily, recognizing the strength and comfort it brought to her and those around her. Her unwavering faith infused her life with purpose, and her spiritual legacy remains a guiding light for all who had the privilege of knowing her. As her earthly journey concludes, the bearers of her memory, Bob King, Colton King, Robbie Villines, Clayton Smith, Michael Holt, Nathan Chisum, Tim Edgmon, and Joe Cowell, will carry her with the respect she earned. Her work family past and present at Deer/Mt. Judea and the students and graduates she inspired stand as honorary pallbearers, with a very special honorary pallbearer, Norman Hill. A heartfelt thank you resonates with the nurses of the 5th floor at Northwest Arkansas Hospital and Circle of Life Hospice in Springdale, whose care and compassion eased Sharon's transition to Heaven. The funeral service, a tribute to a life well-lived, will take place at 10 am on November 17, 2023, at the Deer School Gym, with the Rev. Stanley Taylor officiating, a fitting setting for a woman who dedicated a significant part of her life to the school where so many young minds and hearts have been shaped. In celebrating Sharon Kay Spradley, we honor a legacy built on love, family, strong work ethic, and the enduring importance of education. Burial will be in Deer Cemetery under the direction of Holt Memorial Chapel. A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p. m. on Thursday, November 16, 2023, at the funeral home. The family requests memorial contributions be made to the Deer Cemetery, c/o Vernie Heydenrich, Post Office Box 37, Deer, Arkansas 72628. The online obituary and guestbook are available at www. HoltChapel. com.Show more
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