Sharon Elizabeth Winnie

Sharon Elizabeth Winnie, 69, of Birchwood, Tennessee, passed away on February 27, 2026, leaving behind a lifetime of laughter, love, and the kind of stories that somehow always got better each time they were told. Adventurous, beloved, brave, cherished, and generous to the core, Sharon was the steady heartbeat of her family—faithful, devoted, compassionate, gentle, and hard-working, with an honest spirit and a humorous spark that could brighten even an ordinary day. Patient, loyal, kind-hearted, inspirational, resilient, thoughtful, selfless, and wise, she lived in a way that made people feel cared for simply by being near her.

Born October 12, 1956, in Chattanooga, TN, Sharon was the daughter of the late Amos P. Burrell, Sr. and Imogene Burrell. She graduated from Kirkman Technical High School in 1974, where she was voted Ms. Kirkman and Ms. Senior. She was named Co-Salutatorian and proved she could excel with both brains and grit—earning MVP in Volleyball. It was classic Sharon: determined, capable, and likely smiling while doing it.

Sharon worked for GMAC for several years and later retired from Great American Deli after 17 years. Whether on the job or at home, she brought the same dependable energy—showing up, pitching in, and doing things the right way, with a little humor mixed in when it was needed most.

Sharon was passionate about painting and crafting, and she loved spending time in her garden with her flowers. In her earlier years, she enjoyed playing golf, fishing, and fast old cars—proof that a gentle soul can still have a spirited need for speed. She also loved her puppies, who were fortunate to be cherished by someone so affectionate and devoted.

A member of Philadelphia Baptist Church, Sharon had a sweet disposition and lived a Godly, Christian life. Her legacy is found in the love she gave freely, the kindness she practiced daily, and the steady example she set in the roles she treasured most. Truly, she was an amazing wife, mother, grandmother, and sister.

Sharon is survived by her husband of 49 years, Gary Dean Winnie; her children, Gary Winnie Jr (Roslumelia) and Malissa Winnie (Peter Hisey); her grandchild, Jacob Wyatt Winnie; her brothers, Amos P. Burrell, Jr. "JR", (Debbie) and John Lee Burrell (Jennifer); her nephews, Matthew, Evan and Owen Burrell; her niece, Kathleen Dyke; and her brother-in-law, Chris Godbold. She was preceded in death by her parents; her sister, Connie McDade; and her sister-in-law, Connie Godbold.

A Celebration of Sharon's Life will be held Saturday March 7, 2026, at 5:00 pm in the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home. Her family will receive friends prior to the service beginning at 3:00 pm.

Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com

Chattanooga Funeral Home East Chapel has been entrusted with her arrangements.