Sharon Lane Emery Peterson

Sharon Lane Emery Peterson, born on May 7, 1943, in Blue Earth, Minnesota, passed away on August 30, 2025, following a brief illness. As the second of seven children to Homer and Shirley Emery, Sharon grew up surrounded by six brothers learning valuable lessons in independence, perseverance, and determination.

As her high school graduation approached, she applied for scholarships and heard “why would we give the Emery girl a scholarship, she is just going to marry that Peterson boy and have babies”. She did “just” marry that Peterson boy (Monte) and they did “just” have babies (two beloved daughters), but she was also the first person in her family to receive a college degree. In 1977, she earned her master’s degree in early childhood education from Mankato State. Words matter, and Sharon never “just” did anything.

Armed with her new degree, the family moved to Mount Vernon, Iowa and Sharon embarked on a 20+ year career at Grant Wood Area Education Agency. She loved working with her students and their families and impacted countless lives. AEA’s matter.

In 2000, when computers became protocol, Sharon decided it was time to retire. In 2003, Monte joined her in retirement, and they moved to the Carthage, Missouri area. Always an educator, she volunteered teaching adults to read. Access to education for all matters.

Sharon will be remembered for her love of travel, designing and building houses, and her enjoyment of Bridge, where she formed many lasting friendships. She is survived by her daughters Paige and Peggy, brother Randy, and numerous nieces and nephews. Sharon was preceded in death by her husband of 59 years, Monte Peterson, her parents, her in-laws Monard and Vada Peterson and five brothers, Terry, Dave, Steve, Kevin and Chuck Emery.

In a final act of generosity, Sharon participated in a decade-long cohort study at the KU Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, consenting to share her brain for research despite showing no symptoms of Alzheimer’s. This selfless act underscores her commitment to advancing medical knowledge and helping others. Leaving the world a better place matters. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to After School Arts Program, Special Olympics or any organization supporting education. A memorial service to celebrate Sharon’s life and legacy may be held at a later date.

Arrangements are under the direction of Ozark Memorial Park of Joplin, MO