Sharon Ranson Thompson

Sharon Ranson Thompson, born on April 16, 1944, in Charlotte NC, died peacefully on January 2, 2026, after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer.

There were four things Sharon was known to love: her family, her church, UNC Chapel Hill, and her world travels with her husband, Jim.

Sharon had a love of family, whether you were born into her family or "adopted" into it. As the glue of her family, she demonstrated how to love unconditionally. One way she shared her love was through her homemade cards. These cards were cherished by all who received them. Holiday gatherings were always eagerly anticipated at her home, for everyone knew they would be welcomed with warmth, love, and open arms. Sharon's grandchildren brought her exceptional joy. Whether she was making matching dresses for the girls, or attending their soccer games and dance competitions, she loved being a Mimi. She was excited to bring two grandsons into the family in 2017.

Her faithfulness to God was exemplified through service to Pineville United Methodist Church. She hosted events with the United Women of Faith, provided outreach to home-bound members, and served on the Finance Committee. Her servant heart also extended to PEO, an organization supporting women's education, and Church Women United.

UNC held a special place in Sharon's heart, for it's where she received her nursing degree and met her husband, Jim. She was an avid sports fan who watched all UNC sports, with her favorite being men's and women's basketball. Even her home office, the fan cave, was decorated wall-to-wall with curated UNC memorabilia.

Sharon and Jim traveled the world extensively. Together, they reached all seven continents and seventy-four countries, yet France and Japan proved to be her favorites. Sharon cherished getting to know people and experiencing other cultures. With a heart that embraced the whole world, she continually prayed for peace for everyone.

Sharon is survived by her husband Jim, daughters; Tammy Harris (Randy), Joy Lovette (Barry), and grandchildren; Katie, Shelby, Sela, Nicklaus, and Anthony.

The Celebration of Life service to honor Sharon Ranson Thompson will be held on Saturday, January 10 at 2:00 pm, at Pineville United Methodist Church. Please join us as we remember Sharon for her desire to spread love and kindness to everyone with an energy that amazed us all. To honor her, please wear Carolina Blue.

 The family kindly requests donations to: United Women of Faith - Pineville United Methodist Church.

To send flowers, please contact The Flower Diva, Pineville, NC.