Sharon Kay Schoenecker

Sharon Kay Schoenecker—beloved wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother—passed away peacefully on August 23, 2025, in Bellingham, Washington, at the age of 84. Born on August 22, 1941, at St. Paul Hospital in Dallas, Texas, Sharon lived a life filled with love, devotion, and service to others. Sharon shared 63 wonderful years of marriage with her husband, James Arthur Schoenecker Sr., and together they built a family that was her greatest joy. She was the devoted mother of six children, survived by all and their spouses: James Jr. and Anne-Mairi Schoenecker, Sheri and Chuck Royes, Pamela and David Gilmore, Scott Schoenecker, Kelly and Isaac Lloyd, and Amy and Eric Rosario. She was also a proud grandmother to 14 grandchildren and great-grandmother to 4, each of whom brought her immeasurable happiness. As a dedicated member of the Catholic Church, Sharon was a living testament to Father Bill Mobley’s call to “go out and make love to every piece of life you touch,” weaving love, grace, kindness, and acceptance into each day—as a mother, grandmother, teacher, friend, and tireless volunteer. She cherished her friendships deeply, whether gathered around the table for a lively game of dominoes or enjoying Sunday brunch after church. Those simple moments of laughter and companionship reflected the joy she carried into every relationship. Sharon found joy in lifting her voice in song, sharing her musical gifts with the St. John’s Catholic Church choir in Mukilteo for over 30 years and with the Everett Chorale. She also gave generously of her time, volunteering with the Assistance League supporting Operation School Bell and teaching English as a Second Language at Explorer Middle School. Sharon had a gift for finding the good in every moment—and an even greater gift for making it better. Whether she was keeping score at middle school basketball games long after her own children had graduated, or offering a gentle welcome to children starting over in a new country, ensuring they were met with understanding and care, Sharon shared a love that quietly embraced everyone around her. Sharon’s creativity and skill left lasting legacies in her family’s lives. As an accomplished seamstress, she enveloped her family in warm quilts, lovingly outfitted them, and over the years created exquisite porcelain dolls that remain treasured keepsakes. Her humor, warmth, and steadfast devotion to her family will be remembered always. A funeral Mass celebrating Sharon’s life will be held at St. Mary Magdalene Parish in Everett, Washington, on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at noon. She will be laid to rest at Holyrood Cemetery in Shoreline, Washington, beside her husband, James. Family and friends are warmly invited to attend and share memories of Sharon’s remarkable life.

Sharon Kay Schoenecker

August 22, 1941 - August 23, 2025