Sharon Gail Varner

Sharon Gail Varner, 78, of Bakersfield, California, passed away peacefully at home after a long battle with cancer on the morning of Saturday, May 3, 2025. Sharon was born in Wasco, California on February 19, 1947, to parents Ernest and Nellie Underwood. She was the youngest of 3, to brothers Billy and Ed. Sharon was adventurous, extremely generous, and loved animals. She enjoyed barrel racing and graduated from Bakersfield High School in 1965. She received "The Lifetime Achievement Award" at the Bakersfield High Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2024 for her years of service, dedication and contribution she had given over a span of 30 years.

She married William Varner on February 14, 1974, and they enjoyed life together for 51 years. For over 40 years she enriched the quality of lives for the senior community as an activity director of senior living at Beverly Manor (1973-2007) and Rosewood (2007-2017) before her retirement in 2017. Sharon was the founder of the Senior Olympic Games within the senior community. In the time she worked, she cultivated beautiful relationships with her coworkers and residents which lasted a lifetime.

Sharon cherished all of her family and friends, making a lasting positive impact on the people she loved.

She is leaving behind her 2 sons, Stuart and wife Shannon, Andy and wife Hilary, and her daughter Victoria. Along with her stepsons Kevin, Jimmy, and wife Jill. Her grandchildren include: Nathan, Jessie, Sarah, Abby, Dean, Silas, Jael, Charlie, Sam, Shane, Bailey, Macy, Ella, Jordan, and JJ. She was her grandchildren’s biggest fan and attended every event she possibly could including: swim meets, track meets, wrestling tournaments, soccer games, concerts, plays, and much more. She loved giving to people in any way she could and some of her favorite hobbies were shopping with her grandchildren, and spending time with her family.

Sharon had a strong faith and relationship with the Lord and was an active member of Valley Baptist Church and later, Crossover Church of Rosedale. Her celebration of life will take place at Crossover Church of Rosedale, 18210 Rosedale Hwy., 93314, in Bakersfield, California at 10 AM on May 21, 2025, with a reception immediately following. In lieu of flowers, please make donations to Crossover Church of Rosedale.

Written by: Sarah Rojas, granddaughter .