Sharon Pollard

March 11, 1947 – August 10, 2025

With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Sharon Blaylock Pollard on August 10, 2025, at the age of 78. Sharon courageously battled lung disease caused by long-term chemical exposure and passed peacefully surrounded by loved ones.

Born in Earle, Arkansas, to Edward Derwood and Charlotte (Phillips) Blaylock, Sharon’s life was marked by resilience, brilliance, and boundless compassion. She attended Westside High School, where she was a vibrant and multi-talented student—cheerleader, athlete, seamstress, and a gifted pianist. Her friendships from those years endured a lifetime, a testament to her loyalty and warmth. A devoted member of Frayser Baptist Church, Sharon’s faith was a guiding light throughout her life

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Though she was offered a full academic scholarship, Sharon chose to begin a family, raising her daughter with unwavering love and strength. Her professional journey was equally inspiring. She worked at the Millington Naval Base, where her admiration for the Blue Angels took flight, and later at a chemical plant. In 2002, Sharon was honored with the “Woman of Achievement” award for heroism, recognized for her pivotal role in advancing women’s rights in the workplace. Her landmark case brought her to the front row of the Supreme Court, accompanied by her daughter and grandchildren—a moment that perfectly captured her passion for justice, history, and civic engagement.

Later in life, Sharon found love again and married John Pollard. Together, they built her dream home on a serene 36-acre farm, complete with grazing black angus cattle and a fishing pond. Their shared commitment to community led them to join a children’s charity club, dedicating time each week to giving back. Sharon’s love for the beach sparked countless travel adventures, and her devotion to gardening and landscaping transformed every space she touched into a vibrant haven.

Her faith remained central, as she actively organized fellowship events at church and found joy in games like Bunco, Yahtzee, and Sequence. Sharon’s quick wit and infectious humor made every gathering unforgettable—her grandchildren especially cherished their time with “Grandma,” whose spontaneous remarks and loving spirit created lifelong memories.

In her final years, Sharon poured her heart into caring for her two great-grandchildren, who brought her immeasurable joy. She leaves behind a legacy of courage, kindness, and laughter.

Sharon is survived by her beloved husband, John Pollard; her daughter, Laurie McCaleb; her cherished grandchildren, Amber Williams (Chris Williams) and Hunter McCaleb (Kennedy Southwick); and great-grandchildren, Ruth and Ethel Williams; brother Wayne Blaylock (Janet Blaylock); niece and nephew Carrie Thompson and Brian Blaylock and their families; and countless friends and loved ones whose lives she enriched.

Her story is one of strength, love, and purpose—and she will be deeply missed.

A memorial gathering of family and friends for Sharon will be held Monday, August 18, 2025 from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Memphis Funeral Home and Memorial Gardens, 3700 North Germantown Parkway, Bartlett, Tennessee 38133.