Sharon Kaye Friend

Sharon Kaye Friend, 73, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, September 2, 2025. Born on April 6, 1952, in Bakersfield, California, to Arthur and Charlynn (Bontrager) Callahan, Sharon was a beloved mother, sister, grandmother, and friend.

Sharon dedicated much of her life to caring for others, working as a nurse’s aid at Woodlawn Nursing Home where she touched countless lives with her kindness and compassion. She was a woman of deep faith, attending Mansfield Grace Temple and finding strength and comfort in her relationship with God. Sharon’s faith guided her through life's challenges, and she was known for her unwavering love and generosity.

In her personal life, Sharon had a heart full of passion for the simple pleasures. She loved to crochet and could often be found tending to her beautiful flowers, which she nurtured with care. A lover of animals, Sharon had a special bond with her dogs, and her home was always filled with their joyful presence. Her love for bluegrass and gospel music was another central part of her life, offering her moments of peace and connection to her faith and heritage.

Sharon was a devoted mother to her children, Adam Friend, William Demuth, and Michael Guill. She also cherished her role as a grandmother, leaving a lasting impression on her twelve grandchildren and one great-grandchild. Her family was her greatest joy, and she found immense happiness in spending time with them.

Sharon is survived by her children, her siblings Marilyn Lopez, Carolyn Bond, Vivian (Shane) Fry, Arthur (Lynn) Callahan, Charlynn Paula, Brenda (OD) McVay, and Faye (Michael) Galindo; twelve grandchildren; one great-grandchild; and many cherished family and friends. She is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Vonnie Friend; her parents; and her twin sister, Sandra Faye Callahan.

No services will be held in accordance with Sharon’s wishes. Advantage Funeral and Cremation Services by Wappner is honored to serve the Friend family.