Sharon Kay (Ellison) Smith was born on November 5, 1937, in Oregon City, Oregon to Donald and Kathleen "Kitty" (Hornsby) Ellison and passed away on May 25, 2025, in Seward, Nebraska at the age of 87 years, 6 months and 20 days.

Sharon grew up in Oregon City where she attended and graduated from Oregon City High School with the class of 1955. After her graduation, she attended Oregon State University to obtain her teaching degree. Sharon was united in marriage to William Harry Cowherd and the couple adopted two children together, Kitty and Jason. The family created a life in McMinnville, Oregon where they lived on a small family farm. She worked as a librarian at the McMinnville Library for several years. In the early 80's, Sharon left the farm to pursue more education. She attended Portland State University where she received her master's degree in social work. Sharon was united in marriage to James Smith on December 3, 1983. The couple lived in the suburbs of Portland for several decades before moving to Seward, Nebraska to be closer to Kitty. Sharon had a love for animals and art. She loved her family and enjoyed all the laughter and being together with them.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents; husband, James Smith; ex-husband, William Cowherd.

Survivors cherishing her memory include her children, Kitty Vacha, Seward, NE, Jason Cowherd, McMinnville, OR; daughter in heart, Emily Sims, Soldotna, AK; grandchildren, Sophia (Staci) Machado, Albuquerque, NM, Zachary Vacha and fiancé, Katie Van Laningham, Wilbur, NE; nieces and nephews, Verla Negus, Betty Hymas, Donna Hendrix, Dave Parker; numerous great-nieces, great-nephews and a host of friends.