Sharon Kay (Kenney) Mathiott, 79, of Richmond, Missouri, passed away on Wednesday, October 14, 2026, in Ely, Minnesota.

A family hosted Celebration of Life will be held from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, December 6, 2026, at Bethel Home Health Care (formerly US Bank), 100 East North Main, Richmond, MO 64085. A special time of sharing memories and celebrating Sharon’s life will begin at 3:00 p.m. Memories of Sharon and condolences for her family may be shared at www.LedfordFamilyFH.com or on the funeral home’s Facebook page. Memorials may be made to the Minutemen Special Athletes (Lexington High School, Attention: Special Athletes, 2309 Aull Lane, Lexington, MO 64067); the Humane Society of Ray County (104 North McCart Street, Richmond, MO 64085); or the Bethel Day Program (Attention: Sadie Benefiel, 101 East North Main, Richmond, MO 64085). Arrangements have been entrusted to Walker-Nadler-Fuller Funeral Home, 1720 South Street, Lexington, MO 64067, 660-259-2245.

Sharon was born on December 23, 1946, in Lexington, Missouri, to Clarence Lyle and Teresa Edna (Gnotta) Kenney. She grew up in Lexington, where she graduated from Lexington High School. She continued her education at Missouri Valley College in Marshall, Missouri, before earning her bachelor’s degree from Central Missouri State University in Warrensburg, Missouri.

Sharon devoted much of her life to education, a profession that reflected her love of learning and her desire to make a difference in the lives of others. She spent the entirety of her teaching career with the Richmond School District, where she taught fifth and sixth grade reading and science before retiring in 2008. Throughout her years in the classroom, Sharon shared her enthusiasm for learning with countless students, helping them discover the joys of reading and the wonders of the world around them. She was active in the American Association of University Women during her teaching career. Her passion for education continued beyond retirement through her involvement with the Missouri Retired Teachers Association.

Outside the classroom, Sharon embraced life with curiosity, creativity, and a wonderful appreciation for the little things that brought happiness. She enjoyed spending time in her garden, sewing, embroidery, and cross-stitching, often putting her creativity and patience into everything she made. An avid reader, Sharon especially looked forward to attending the annual Children’s Literature Festival, an event that combined her lifelong love of books with her passion for education.

Sharon also had a love for traveling and taking road trips, always ready to explore somewhere new and make memories along the way. One of her favorite parts of traveling was finding special little gifts to bring home for family and friends. She took great pleasure in choosing something thoughtful for others, a simple but meaningful reflection of her generous and caring nature.

Sharon was also a devoted Kansas City Chiefs fan who enjoyed cheering on her favorite football team. She proudly considered herself a “Swiftie,” sharing an enthusiasm for Taylor Swift and her music. Whether she was enjoying a good book, working on a puzzle, cheering on the Chiefs, listening to her favorite music, or planning her next adventure, Sharon found joy in the things she loved.

Above all, Sharon treasured the time she spent with her family, friends and her beloved dog, Sadie. Her daughters, grandchildren, and loved ones were an important part of her life, and the memories they created together will remain a lasting part of her legacy. Sharon will be remembered for her love of learning, her thoughtful gestures, her many interests, and the special ways she touched the lives of those around her.

Sharon is survived by her three daughters, Teresa Auxier of Lexington, MO, Stacy (Steve) Breeden of Lexington, MO, and Lauren (Jon) Crane of Liberty, MO; four grandchildren, Maria Breeden, Clayton Breeden, Ashton Auxier, and David Crane; one brother, Jim (Sue) Kenney of Lexington, MO; a nephew, Ryan (Kimberly) Kenney; a niece, Mendy (Joe) Clifford; and many other relatives and dear friends.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Clarence Lyle and Teresa Edna (Gnotta) Kenney.

Sharon leaves behind a lifetime of cherished memories, lessons shared, adventures enjoyed, and thoughtful acts of kindness. Her legacy will live on through her family, the students she inspired, and the many lives she touched along the way.