Sharon Margaret Sands

Sharon Margaret Sands, born on August 7, 1939, in Detroit, Michigan, passed away on June 2, 2025, in Roseville, Michigan. She was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great grandmother sister, aunt and friend. Sharon led a life filled with love and was devoted to her family.

Sharon, known by her maiden name McKerr, graduated from Denby High School in 1957. Her life long love of tennis started there as a member of the tennis team. In October 1960 she married James Sands and they shared 34 happy years of marriage until his passing. They bought their first home in 1962, and moved to Warren, Michigan. Here they raised their family and forged lifelong friendships that would nourish them for years to come.

Throughout her life, Sharon remained deeply committed to her faith and her church community. She was actively involved with St. George's Episcopal Church in Warren, where she spent many years serving as treasurer. Later, she became a cherished member of St. Stephen's Episcopal Church in Troy, with dedication as a member of the altar guild.

Sharon stayed home to raise her children, happy in her role as a homemaker. She went back to work in 1980, working for the US Census. After, she stayed in the workforce for another 20 years at Duramic Abrasive, where she worked in the office

A woman of fun spirit, Sharon enjoyed card games and was particularly talented in bridge, which she started playing with Jim and their neighbors, Sharon continued to play bridge for many years and could often be found playing cards or boardgames with her grandchildren. Her enthusiasm for tennis extended well beyond her youth; she joined leagues and created bonds with her “Tennis Lady friends.” Even after her tennis days, these friendships flourished, with regular Tuesday morning breakfasts creating cherished connections.

Sharon was a passionate sports fan, often supporting her favorite teams, which included college basketball and the Detroit Tigers. However, her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, attending every sporting event and school function for her children and grandchildren. Sharon is survived by her children Brenda (Gary) Abitheira, Robert (Kathy) Sands, and Kathleen (Dale) Johnston. She was a proud grandmother to her eight grandchildren: Katie Abitheira, Steven (Taylor) Abitheira, Michael Abitheira, James (Nathalie) Sands, Jason Sands, Jake Sands, Danny (Kayla) Johnston, and Sean Johnston, as well as a great-granddaughter, Kaylee Abitheira.

Sharon is also survived by her sisters-in-law, Barbara McKerr and Theresa Sands, who will remember her fondly. She joins in eternal rest her beloved husband, James Sands, and her parents, Moses and Margaret McKerr. She was preceded in death by her brother, Robert McKerr, and brother-in-law, Walter Sands.

A life well-lived, Sharon Margaret Sands is remembered for her unwavering love for her family, her dedication to her church, and her vibrant friendships that brought joy to all who knew her. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will resonate through those who were fortunate enough to call her a friend or family.

In lieu of flowers, envelopes will be provided at St. Stephen's to contribute to their endowment fund or you can make a donation to Alzheimer's research in Sharon's name following the link below.