Sharon Sue Stephens

Sharon Sue Stephens, age 76, of Walkerton, passed away at her home on Sunday, November 8, 2026. Sharon was born August 29, 1950, in South Bend, Indiana, to the late Eugene “Rube” and Evelyn (Platz) Runyan. On October 27, 1990, she married Donald J. Stephens III, and together they shared a marriage filled with love, laughter, and friendship until Don’s passing on March 26, 2002.

Sharon is survived by her children, Cory (Amy) Stephens, Ashley Stephens, and Tiffany Stephens, along with her grandchildren, Jacob, Annah, Ethan, Chloe, and Renley. Surviving as well are her siblings, Terrie (Teddy) Gorski, Steve (Leanne) Runyan, Deb (Eddie) Aldrich, Vickie Hill, and Beth (Richard “Rock”) Smith, her brother in law Curt Klingerman, and her in-laws, Marla (Joe) Stockbridge and Brian Stephens. She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings, Sandy Packer and Jackie Klingerman; her brother-in-law, Kent Stephens; and her favorite dog, “Shorty” the Shih Tzu. She is also survived by numerous cousins, nieces, and nephews.

Sharon was a dedicated homemaker who loved nothing more than spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren. Being a grandma was her greatest joy, and she made sure her family always knew how much they were loved. Christmas was her favorite time of year. She enjoyed making handmade gifts for family and friends, and there was never a shortage of presents under her Christmas tree. She was also known for her Christmas cooking and baking, especially her famous chicken enchiladas, keeflies, buckeyes, pumpkin rolls, and homemade noodles.

Sharon had a sweet tooth, especially for candy with nuts, and always kept a full candy bowl on her table. She enjoyed a good gyro from King Gyros in Plymouth and dinners at Hacienda. She loved playing Euchre, Scrabble, the dice game 10,000, throwing darts, and playing UNO Attack with her grandchildren. She was a Notre Dame football fan and enjoyed camping, fishing, and earning Kohl's Cash. Sharon also loved spending time with her sisters, Terry and Sandy. The three affectionately called themselves the “Three Musketeers.” She also made a point of keeping in touch with her cousins and maintaining those family connections.

Sharon was a longtime member of the American Legion Post 365 Ladies Auxiliary and supported Shriners Hospitals for Children for many years.

Above all, Sharon was a giver. She was humble, kind, and selfless, always willing to help others, even when she had little to give herself. She had a caring heart and was often the person others turned to when they needed help. Her family and friends will remember her generosity, her love for others, her famous blue station wagon, and the many ways she made their lives better.

A celebration of Sharon's life will be held at a later date. The family appreciates the love and support shown during this difficult time. In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Sharon's memory may make a memorial donation to Shriners Children's, an organization she supported for many years.

Wells and Cruz Family Funeral Home and Cremation Care of Mishawaka has been entrusted with her care. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Shriner’s Hospital for Children , 2211 North Oak Park Ave. Chicago, IL 60707

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