Sharon L. Merritt

FARMINGTON – Sharon L. Merritt, of Farmington, entered eternal rest on Wednesday, August 21, 2024, at her residence surrounded by her loved ones at the age of 65. She was born on June 29, 1959, in Bonne Terre, Missouri, to Dennis Crader Sr. and Jo Ann (Hovis) Crader.

Sharon is survived by her mother, Jo Ann (Hovis) Scott; her children, Shawn (Melissa) Merritt, Robbie (Andrea) Merritt, and Helana Merritt; her grandchildren, Ethan Merritt, Jacob Merritt, Kaylee Merritt, and Emily Merritt; her siblings, Dennis Crader Jr., Kevin Crader, and Alan (Susan) Crader; and her special friend, Shelia Horton. She is also survived by several aunts, uncles, cousins, and dear friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her father, Dennis Crader Sr., and her brother, Wendell Crader.

Sharon, a dedicated and skilled diagnostic medical sonographer, graduated from Sanford-Brown College in 2000. Over the course of her 23-year career at Parkland Health Center in Farmington, she made a significant impact on the lives of countless patients. In addition to her role at Parkland, Sharon also worked with Dr. Piotrowski at Heart and Vascular Associates in Farmington for several years, a position she cherished greatly. Her compassion and expertise in her field were evident to all who knew her, and she will be remembered for her unwavering commitment to providing quality care.

Outside of her career, Sharon embraced a wide range of interests and hobbies. She had a passion for racing ATVs, proudly holding the title of Missouri State Champion in the 1980s. Sharon enjoyed playing volleyball and softball, and she found joy in bowling as well. Sharon was an enthusiastic fan of the St. Louis Cardinals. She loved spending sunny days at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the outdoors. Additionally, she took great pride in her cherished collection of Charlie Brown memorabilia. Most importantly, Sharon treasured the moments spent with her family, creating lasting memories that will forever be held dear by those who knew and loved her.

A memorial visitation will be held on Monday, August 26, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the memorial service at 1:00 p.m. at Cozean Memorial Chapel. Inurnment to follow at St. Francois Memorial Park in Bonne Terre. The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional team at Preferred Hospice for their compassionate care and support during this difficult time. Memorial donations, if desired, may be made to the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, 1500 Rosecrans Avenue, Suite 200, Manhattan Beach, CA 90266 or Preferred Hospice, 810 Progress Dr, Farmington, MO 63640. View the video tribute and share your memories and condolences at cozeanfuneralhome.com.