Obituary of Frances Sharman

Frances Sharman, September 12, 1934 – June 30, 2020

With sadness, we announce the passing of Frances Jean Violet "Frankie" Sharman (née Adams), peacefully in her home on June 30, 2020, in her 86th year. Former wife and life-long friend of Professor Charles Anthony ("Tony") Sharman of Toronto. Loving mother of the late Lesley Sharman of Brampton and Melanie Rowand (Fraser) of Toronto. Devoted grandmother of Mandi Sharman, Sarah Rowand, Katie Rowand and Charlotte Rowand. Survived by sisters Blanche Slater of Mississauga, Kathleen Dickson of St. Catharines, and Alice Luce of Burlington. Pre-deceased by brothers and sisters-in-law, John ("Jack") Adams (Edna), George Adams (Mina), Douglas Adams, all of Birr; sister Marianne Bathurst (Harold) of Barrie, and brothers-in-law Don Slater, Dr. "Chum" Dickson, and George Luce. Fondly remembered by many nieces and nephews, friends, and neighbours for her kindness and gentle nature.

Frankie was born the youngest of eight children on a farm near London, Ontario during the Great Depression, where her academic career began in a one-room school-house.  She received her B.A. in English Literature from McGill University and her teacher training diploma from the University of British Columbia.  She was crowned the Winter Carnival Queen at McGill and went on to win the Miss London crown and compete in the Miss Canada pageant. 

Frankie taught primary school and high school for several years, before staying at home with her children.  She also taught piano lessons and volunteered extensively in her community, including working for a telephone crisis line and offering free tutoring to children with special needs.  Frankie was an independent thinker who was interested in nutrition, autism, and the environment.  She was a devoted mother and grandmother who worked hard to make her corner of the world a better place.

Cremation has taken place. Those wishing to make a memorial tribute may consider donating to a local food bank or the Lesley Sharman scholarship fund at Algoma University. Heart-felt thanks to Frankie's care-givers who provided Frankie compassionate at-home palliative care.