Sharon Pierce

Sharon June Pierce, 81, of Tilton passed away on March 10, 2026 at OSF Sacred Heart Medical Center in Danville, Illinois. She was born to Rosemary and Leonard Allen, Sr. in Danville on September 11, 1944. She was raised in Hoopeston and spent many years there. 

On April 16, 1961, Sharon married James Hollis Pierce. He survives. Over the course of more than two decades, Sharon devoted herself to her work at Big Lots before transitioning her career to WorkSource, where she spent several years as well. In addition, she also spent many hours cleaning houses. Her strong work ethic and reliability were qualities admired by all who knew her. 

Beyond her professional life, Sharon was a vibrant individual who touched many lives. Her easygoing nature and ability to connect with others made her a well-loved presence among her wide circle of friends. Sharon's genuine kindness and openness created deep and lasting bonds. She was known for being an amazing sister and aunt, roles she embraced with love and generosity. Sharon had a rich array of hobbies. She found joy in shopping, exploring rummage sales, and frequenting thrift stores, always uncovering hidden treasures. Family dinners hosted by Sharon were treasured gatherings filled with laughter and warmth. She also found excitement in attending stock car races and enjoyed moments of fun and camaraderie playing bingo. Her love of country music provided a soundtrack to many happy occasions. Her favorite afternoons where spent going to the Dairy Barn and making the rounds to stop in on family and friends. 

In addition to her husband, Sharon is survived by her son, Randy Pierce, who was her world and referred to each other as a team; her granddaughter Brooke (Chris) Atkins; and her sister Gloria (Rick) Hufford. She is also survived by several great-grandchildren, great great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, as well as her dog, Ivan. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Leonard Allen, Jr., Danny Allen, Sr., and Donna Yanders; her best friend Loretta Cohen; her dog Elvira, and nieces Renée Wright and Jamie Sternberger. 

Sharon's family would like to thank Hawthorne Inn and her nieces, Kimmy Ann and Debbie, for the wonderful care and love shown to Sharon over the past year as her health declined. 

A graveside service celebrating Sharon's life will take place at 2 pm on Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at Greenwood Cemetery in Tilton, Illinois. Online condolences and fond memories can be shared with her family at www.sunsetfuneralhome.com