Sharon Lee Maier

Sharon Lee Maier, age 75, was born November 22, 1949, and passed away Saturday, June 28, 2025. She was born in Detroit, Michigan to Walter and Evelyn McKay, and her life was a testament to love, adventure, creativity, and fierce devotion to those she held dear.

Sharon graduated from Henry Ford High School in Detroit and married the love of her life, Bill Maier, on August 29, 1970, in their hometown. After moving to East Lansing with her husband, Bill, she began her dual role as both a professional and the heart of the household—helping Bill manage his many commitments. That role only deepened once they settled in Lansing and welcomed children into their lives. In addition to her steadfast care at home, Sharon took on the important position of school bus driver for Okemos Public Schools, safely transporting many children from 1991 until 2005.

A tireless advocate for her children and community, Sharon was an active PTO treasurer, elementary school mom, crafter, and Girl Scout troop leader—having been a proud Girl Scout herself. She delighted in every team her children joined, serving as the unofficial team photographer and memory-keeper for countless floor hockey, ice hockey, and swim teams. Her camera and scrapbooks chronicled decades of milestones and moments.

Sharon’s passion for family history led her to become an avid genealogist. She found joy in quilting, sewing, and crafting. A dedicated scrapbooker, she ensured every holiday, trip, and quiet afternoon was remembered.

She loved the outdoors and relished every opportunity to camp, travel, and explore, especially when lighthouses were involved—photographing and visiting them became a favorite adventure.

More than anything, Sharon was happiest when surrounded by her family. Her love was fierce, unwavering, and abundant.

Sharon is survived by her beloved husband William “Bill” Maier; children: Beth (Barry) Cook and Dan Maier; grandchildren: Jackson Maier, Sofie Pastrana, Simon Cook, Elliott Cook, Joseph Maier and Annabel Cook; as well as several beloved brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, cousins, nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her siblings: David McKay, Michael McKay and Laura McKay.

A visitation for Sharon will be held Monday, July 7, 2025, from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Gorsline Runciman Funeral Homes, 900 East Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912. A funeral service will occur Tuesday, July 8, 2025, at 11:00 AM with a visitation one hour prior at the funeral home. Interment to follow at Maple Ridge Cemetery in Holt, MI.

Memorial contributions in memory of Sharon may be made to American Heart Association.

A Celebration of Life will be planned for later in the summer.