Sharon Edyth Estill

Sharon Edyth Estill began her journey in life on August 29, 1946 in Houston, Texas, the daughter of David Nixon Sr. and Dorothy Jane (Hager) Bradley. Sharon graduated from Stephen F. Austin High School in Houston, Texas, and later attended Baptist Bible College in Springfield, Missouri. It was there that she met the love of her life, Ralph Estill. They were married on July 2, 1966, in Springfield, Missouri, beginning a lifelong partnership filled with faith and adventure for nearly 60 years.

From a young age, Sharon embraced curiosity and leadership as a Girl Scout, traits that stayed with her throughout her life. She loved to travel and truly saw the world—journeying to India, traveling throughout Europe, and exploring nearly every corner of the United States. She rode a mule through the Grand Canyon, took many memorable rail trips, traveled to Mexico with her brother, and made an unforgettable drive with her husband to Yellowknife, Canada, where they stood in awe at the Arctic Circle. She especially cherished traveling across the country with her daughter, creating memories that spanned miles and generations. Spending time with her granddaughters was always a highlight in her life.

A devoted Christian, Sharon was actively involved in church life wherever she lived. She sang in church choirs in Albuquerque, New Mexico; Denver, Colorado; and many other places, sharing her love of music and worship. Her favorite song to sing was “Thank You for the Valley,” a reflection of her steadfast faith and grateful heart. She also served faithfully through her work at the church bookstores and coffee shops, always offering kindness and a welcoming smile.

Sharon was a proud member of the Daughters of the American Revolution and had a deep appreciation for history and heritage. She was endlessly creative, finding joy in painting and craft projects, and she had a strong mind paired with a fearless sense of adventure. Known affectionately as the “most fun aunt,” Sharon was the sweetest of souls—always laughing, always making others laugh, and always able to find humor no matter what the situation. Her joy was effortless, her kindness genuine, and her presence unforgettable. On January 31, 2026 at the age of 79 years old, Sharon Estill was called home to meet her Lord and Savior, leaving behind a legacy of faith, laughter, creativity, and love. She will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew her.

She has gone on to join her parents, David Nixon Sr. and Dorothy Jane (Hager) Bradley. Her parents-in-law, Harry Burgess Estill and Grace Mae Tuggle.

Those left to cherish her memory include her beloved husband, Ralph Dee Estill; her daughter, Amee Carleen Ross, and husband Sean, of Tahlequah; and her two sons, David Michael Estill, and wife Katie, of San Antonio, Texas, and Jonathan Edward Estill, of Lawrence, Kansas. She is also survived by her brother, David Nixson Bradley Jr., of Shoreline, Washington.

Her legacy lives on through her five cherished grandchildren: TaNae Rochelle Baeza, and husband Jeremy; Caitlin Grace Estill; Brittany Hope Estill; and Maddison Carleen Yen, and husband Andrew, all of San Antonio, Texas, Rhett Lee Thompson and wife, Britnee, of Shreveport, Louisiana. Great-grandchildren: Jackson Lee of Mt. Pleasant, Nora Olivia and Everett Ray of Shreveport, Louisiana, as well as one great-granddaughter on the way (San Antonio).

She is further survived by her nieces: Christina Ann Anderson, and husband Jason, of Clarksville, Tennessee; Rebecca Jean Grant, and husband Brian, of Snohomish, Washington; and their mother, Johanna Louise Bradley, of Edmonds, Washington. Elizabeth Yvonne Estill of Tahlequah, Oklahoma; Ruth Gayle Estill and husband, Luke, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma; Michelle Joy Estill, of Jones, Oklahoma; Deborah Jo Hatheway, and husband Brett, of North Platte, Nebraska; Sharon June Ponce, and husband Seth; and Jarred Russell Hatheway, of North Platte, Nebraska. Carolyn Lee Lindquist, of Liberty, Missouri; and Heather Lee Sweere, and husband Tom, of Platte City, Missouri. She is additionally survived by her in-laws, Russell Lee and Sharon Kay Estill, of North Platte, Nebraska, and Wayne and Cathie Estill, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, along with many other dear friends and loved ones.

Caregiving is never easy. You do it because someone is precious to you. You do it because they deserve dignity, comfort, and love. But the truth is, it is not something anyone can do alone. We would like to take a moment to recognize the extraordinary people who made it possible for Sharon to remain in her home, surrounded by love, and cared for with such compassion. In Colorado, Rahel (Rachel) Gebreyesus – gentle, loving, and truly part of our family. She not only cared for Sharon, but brought warmth, joy, and love into our entire home—including our pets. Maria Dueth – always willing to step in and help, often at a moment’s notice, filling in the gaps with kindness and grace. To those in Oklahoma, Tina Ragan – who came into our lives when we moved to Oklahoma and has been a steady, loving presence in caring for both Sharon and Ralph. She is far more than a caregiver—she is family, and always will be. Beth Walkingstick – who has been with us since our move to Oklahoma. More than a CNA from Shepherd’s, she became a dear friend who cared for Sharon not only physically, but emotionally, with genuine love. Good Shepherd Hospice – Words cannot fully express our gratitude for this incredible team. Their care was compassionate, competent, and deeply kind. Our primary nurses, Michelle and Mariah, walked alongside us through this entire journey. The other CNAs, like Sam, and our chaplain, Rod, brought comfort, peace, and encouragement in ways we will never forget. To our family and friends who visited, supported, and stepped in whenever needed—you made more of a difference than you will ever know. If we have unintentionally missed anyone, please know it is not from a lack of gratitude. Over these past years, it has truly taken a community, and every act of love and support has meant the world to us. From the bottom of our hearts—thank you. You all matter more than words can express.

A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, March 30, 2026 at 11:00am at Crossway Baptist Church with Pastor Sean Ross officiating. Friends and family are invited to a meal following the service.