Whether you are a family member, friend, or colleague, you knew Sharon as a quick-witted, sharp tongued straightforward individual. And let’s not forget the look. You could most certainly know what she was thinking with that look. These traits were all tempered with her good nature, kind heart and giving spirit. Some would be surprised at how sensitive she really was. She also had the natural ability to make you laugh, not just laugh but laugh until you cried. She could quote lines from movies with perfect comedic timing. She could have been a comedian.

Sharon was born on August 26, 1961, in Hickory, North Carolina to Harold and Betty Raye Propst, who both preceded her in death. Affectionately known as “Peewee” growing up, Sharon grew to be a giant in her faith in God. She was a member of Emanuel Baptist Church in Thomasville. Her positive attitude and relentless determination sustained her in the battle that ensued over the last six years in fighting the breast and kidney cancer that had attacked her body. As of July 22, 2021, the battle ceased, and she now rests in the bosom of Almighty God. In addition to her parents, Sharon was preceded in death by her mother-in-law, Patricia Southerland.

Sharon attended and graduated from Newton-Conover High School in 1979. She began her collegiate studies at Winston-Salem State University in the fall of 1979 where she completed one year of study. Later she enrolled in Catawba Valley Technical College where she received her Associates Degree in Accounting. After moving from Conover to High Point, she attended High Point University where, in 1996, she received her bachelor’s degree in accounting. Her daughters, Lauren Propst-Riddick (Christopher) of Washington, D.C., Erica Propst of Atlanta, Georgia, and Taylor Southerland of the home, had a positive example to follow and each completed studies at institutions of higher learning in which they have all been blessed with successful careers. She was a proud mother indeed.

Sharon and Wayne Southerland met in 1989. He has been Sharon’s committed husband and father to their three girls for 26 years. He was truly the love of her life. The dedication and attentiveness shown to her especially during the last six years personified the marriage vow, in sickness and in health. Sharon and Wayne are known for entertaining others. Whether it was a backyard barbecue, super bowl party or simply entertaining a few friends, you knew it was going to be good food along with Sharon’s homemade cakes and desserts. In addition to entertaining, Sharon loved to travel, shop, and spoil her grandchildren, whom she lovingly referred to as “my babies”, Gavin, Skylar, and Zoe.

Sharon’s career at Volvo began in 1989, where she held various positions over the years, each with an upward trajectory. Her dedication to the job was exemplified as she worked diligently throughout and up until her last visit to the hospital. Always the stylish dresser, she loved her high heels, even when the workplace culture changed to include casual Friday, she wore her heels. Her entertaining expanded to the job as well. Always coordinating gatherings and luncheons, Sharon enjoyed sharing her culinary creations with her coworkers.

Cherishing her memories are her siblings, Robin Propst Henderson (Clarence), Phillip Propst, Harold Propst Jr., Shunda Jolly Ramseur, and Julian Jolly; her father-in-law James Southerland (Judy) and brother-in-law Patrick Southerland (Kathy) and her aunt Rosye Taylor. Also left cherishing those memories are a multitude of family, her childhood friend, Tammy Powell, her roll dawg, Ella McCollum and many very special friends and colleagues who knew and loved her.

Memorial service will be held Thursday, July29, 2021 at 2:00 p.m. at Emmanuel Baptist Church, 204 Turner Street, Thomasville, NC.

Final arrangements are entrusted to Phillips Funeral Service, Inc.