Sharon Renae Pickens

Sharon was raised in the church and attended New Hope Baptist Church during her younger years. Following the birth of her daughter, Shunta, she recommitted her life to Christ and faithfully served the Lord. At New Hope Baptist Church, Sharon served in many capacities, including teaching Sunday School, serving with the drill team, and singing in the choir, among many other roles. Her heart for ministry extended beyond the walls of the church. Sharon faithfully visited the sick and shut-in throughout the community and spent time visiting nursing homes, bringing encouragement, prayer, and the love of Christ to those who were unable to attend church. She often brought her daughter, Shunta, with her on these visits, teaching her by example the importance of serving others, being a witness, and showing compassion to those in need.

In 2002, Sharon moved to Mesquite, Texas, and on October 10, 2004, united with The Potter's House of Dallas. Her love for worship and service led her to join the Bishop's Choir in October 2008, and in June 2012, she answered God's call to ministry and was ordained as a minister.

Sharon graduated from Canton High School on May 25, 1978. She continued her education at Trinity Valley Community College, where she earned an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Computer Science. She also received a Data Certificate through the Athens and Terrell campuses of Trinity Valley Community College.

A dedicated and hardworking woman, Sharon devoted 23 years of service to Terrell State Hospital as a Certified Pharmacy Technician. She faithfully served in her profession until her retirement in March 2017. In addition, she worked for two years in the library at Trinity Valley Community College in Terrell.

Outside of her career and ministry, Sharon found her greatest joy in spending time with her family. She loved reading and studying the Word of God, which strengthened her faith and guided her daily life. She also enjoyed watching sports and cherished every opportunity to encourage and support those she loved. Her compassion for others was evident in the way she gave of her time, her heart, and her presence. Whether she was serving in the church, visiting the sick and shut-in, encouraging someone in a nursing home, or spending time with family, Sharon believed in being a living example of God's love.

Sharon leaves to cherish her precious memory her only daughter, Shunta Jackson; her beloved son-in-law, Chris Jackson; and her three treasured grandchildren, Jaela Jackson, Cassidy Jackson, and Christian Jackson, Jr. She also leaves behind her two Goddaughters, Marsha Baldwin and Tiffany Herndon; a loving aunt; and a host of sisters, brothers, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends whose lives were forever touched by her love, kindness, and unwavering faith.

Sharon's life was a beautiful testimony of faith, perseverance, compassion, and unconditional love. She faithfully served God, cared deeply for her family, and gave generously of herself to others. She not only spoke about faith and service, but lived it through her actions and taught those around her, especially her daughter, the importance of being a witness and serving others. Though she will be greatly missed, her legacy of faith, compassion, service, and love will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were blessed to know and love her.

"Well done, good and faithful servant... Enter into the joy of your Lord."

Matthew 25:23