Sharon Lee Thoma

Sharon Kerby Thoma, age 78, of Marion, North Carolina, passed away peacefully at her home on Thoma Farm Drive, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born with a heart full of kindness and a smile that lit up every room, Sharon dedicated her life to caring for those around her. She was the beloved wife of Don Thoma Jr., with whom she shared 57 beautiful years of marriage, and the devoted mother of Tracey Thoma York, both of whom survive her, along with their immediate family.

For three decades, Sharon was a familiar and welcoming face at Belk Department Stores in the Marion and Asheville areas. Known for her warmth, friendliness, and incredible memory for faces and stories, she never met a stranger. Whether greeting long-time customers or chatting with someone new, Sharon had a rare gift for making people feel seen, valued, and at home.

Though she built a wide circle of friends through work and community, her heart belonged above all to her family. She poured herself into their lives with unwavering love and support, making every holiday brighter, every gathering warmer, and every challenge more bearable with her steady presence.

In honor of Sharon’s compassionate spirit and enduring strength, the family asks that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to the Cure Alzheimer’s Now Fund, an organization close to their hearts.

Sharon’s absence leaves a space that can never be filled, but her legacy of love, grace, and friendship will live on in all who had the privilege to know her.