Sharon A. Ross (Laida)

In loving memory

September 26, 1945 - September 29, 2026

Sharon A. Ross, 81, of Skaneateles, passed away peacefully surrounded by her daughters and granddaughters. Shari was predeceased by her husband, Robert O. Ross; her parents, Joe and Lillian Laida; and her recent partner, John Yurco. She is survived by her daughters, Heather (John) of Skaneateles and Stacie of Boston, MA; her granddaughters, Madison and Alison; her close "sister" relationships; and family and friends from every stage of life.

Shari was raised in Skaneateles in a hardworking, multigenerational farm family. A graduate of the Skaneateles School District, SUNY Oswego, and Syracuse University, where she earned her master's degree in education, Shari devoted her career to education: Teaching elementary school, and later serving as a student teacher advisor at SUNY Cortland. She and Robert raised their children in Cortland, where community involvement led to lifelong friendships.

Shari was an active member of the Skaneateles United Methodist Church, Friends of Seymour Library, Seward House Museum, The REV Theatre Company, and Syracuse Stage.

Shari found joy in nature, theater, lectures of every kind, worldwide travels, and deep conversation with family and friends. Her love for teaching never ended; true to form, she pledged her body to Upstate Medical University.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, October 17, 2026, at 1:00 PM at the Skaneateles United Methodist Church. Her memory may be honored by donations to the Seward House Museum in Auburn, New York.

To leave condolences, please visit robertdgrayfuneralhome.com.