Sharon L. Priestly

Sharon L. Priestly (Williams), a beacon of light and laughter, graced this world with her presence on January 10, 1944, until her departure on September 21, 2024. In her passing, she leaves behind a legacy rich with love, friendship, and cherished memories that will forever resonate in the hearts of those fortunate enough to have known her.

In her younger years Sharon worked at factories on machines. It was the type of job that took a strong individual and one not many women embraced during this period in history. In her vibrant adult life, Sharon embraced her career as a barmaid, a role where she expertly crafted not only beverages but also lasting friendships. Her establishments were often filled with laughter, stories, and the unmistakable aroma of Juicy Fruit, a scent that became synonymous with her beautiful smile and fiery spirit. 

Sharon was a multifaceted soul—caring, loving, and wonderfully goofy. Her feisty nature was complemented by an honest disposition; she was never one to shy away from speaking her mind. Those who knew her will fondly remember her as sexy, beautiful, and endlessly humorous. Sharon knew how to seize each moment, transforming ordinary days into delightful adventures with her zest for life.

Her interests were as colorful as her personality. She reveled in the simple joys of spending time with her family and her beloved cats, often finding pleasure in scratching scratch tickets and sharing a cold Budweiser. In her youth, she had a playful reputation for breaking hearts, leaving an indelible mark on many fortunate souls tangled in her embrace. Throughout her life Sharon and her sisters represented true Worcester Girls with their "hair in curls." 

Sharon's profound love for her family was her proudest accomplishment, a bond that remained unbreakable even in the face of loss. She is survived by her devoted husband, Ron Marlborough, her children: Kevin L. Merchant, Scott R. Merchant, Rhonda L. Banfill, and Billyjoe M. Goddard, her 11 grandchildren, 11 great grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, great nieces and nephews, and great-great nieces and nephews all of whom carry forward her spirit of compassion and warmth. 

She is also lovingly remembered by the souls of her departed mother, Elsie E. Williams (Dahl) and father, Kenneth C. Williams Sr. son, James T. Merchant, sisters, Gayle R. White (Williams), Glenda LaBlanc (Williams), Jacquelyn Withers (Williams), Rozzy Chubka (Williams), Jerry Lemon, and her brothers Kenny Williams, Dennis Williams, and Kenneth (Rico) C. Williams all of whom await her in eternal peace.

A visitation to honor Sharon's life will be held on September 27, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM at Comfort Cremation, located at 1027 Main Street, Worcester, MA 01603. Friends and family are invited to gather and share in reminiscences of a woman who was not just a mother, wife, and friend but an irreplaceable jewel in the tapestry of life.

Although the world feels a touch dimmer with Sharon's passing, the light she brought into our lives will continue to shine brightly, forever illuminating the hearts of those she loved unconditionally.