Sharon Ann Dennis, 80
A celebration of life for Sharon Ann Dennis, 80, of West Plains, was held June 6, 2026, at the Gainesville First Christian Church.
She died peacefully on June 3. Sharon was born on Sept. 16, 1945, in St. Louis, to Barney and Doris Douglas. She grew up in Gainesville and graduated as salutatorian of the Gainesville High School class of 1963.
On Feb. 13, 1980, Sharon married the love of her life, Wendell Dennis. Together they built a life filled with love, family, travel and adventure. Whether exploring the country in their RV, visiting the Colorado mountains, traveling overseas to Germany, Italy and London, enjoying the beauty of Hawaii, or spending time in the Ozarks she loved so dearly, Sharon embraced life and made lasting memories wherever she went.
Throughout her career, Sharon worked for Belts in Grandview, Stoops and Wilson in Shawnee, Kansas, and retired from Yellow Freight after 24 years of dedicated service. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Sharon devoted many years to caring for her beloved Aunt Thelma in Kansas City, reflecting the compassion and generosity that defined her life.
A gifted pianist, Sharon taught piano lessons and shared her musical talents by playing at weddings, funerals and church throughout the years. She found joy in bringing comfort and celebration to others through music.
Those who knew Sharon will remember her as sweet, friendly, and endlessly kind. She had a heart big enough for everyone she met. She loved spending time with family, especially her grandchildren, and took great pride in her husband, Wendell, her grandkids, Finley and Ethan and her son, Brad. She enjoyed life's simple pleasures—sweet treats, beautiful jewelry, bright, colorful clothes, and making memories with those she loved.
Sharon also had a playful spirit. In her younger years, she loved boating, water skiing and floating on the lake with family and friends. Her laughter, warmth and loving nature left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
Sharon's greatest joy was her family. Her kindness, gentle spirit and love for life will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Sharon is survived by her husband of 46 years, Wendell Dennis; her son Brad Gaddy and wife Beth Gaddy of Kansas City, Kansas; grandchildren: Finley Gaddy of Overland Park, Kansas, and Ethan Gaddy of Omaha, Nebraska; brother Allen Douglas and wife Glenda Douglas; sister Debbie Bodenhamer; and many nieces and nephews, including Daniel Dennis, Pat Bodenhamer, Paula Bodenhamer and Jeff and Jennifer Douglas, along with numerous extended family members and dear friends.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Barney and Doris Douglas; her beloved Aunt Thelma Barnett; and stepsons: Jimmy Dennis and Brian Dennis.
Arrangements under the direction of Robertson Drago Funeral Home, West Plains.