With heavy hearts and cherished memories, we celebrate the life of Sharon Patrice Leneau Jones, who peacefully departed this life on Monday, May 25, 2026, at 5:20 a.m. Sharon was born on January 13, 1959, in Sumter, South Carolina, to the late Sarah Rose Leneau and Earnest Leneau Sr., who both preceded her in death.

Sharon was the eldest of three children and embraced that role with love, strength, and dedication to her family. From an early age, she demonstrated a passion for learning and a commitment to helping others succeed.

She received her early education at Langston Hughes Elementary School (P.S. 233) and graduated from Samuel J. Tilden High School in Brooklyn, New York. She continued her academic journey at Hunter College, where she earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Relations and later a Master’s Degree in Communications and Education.

Education was one of Sharon’s greatest passions and it was evident throughout her life. She consistently encouraged others, especially her nieces and nephews, to pursue their educational goals and to strive for excellence. Her love for teaching profoundly influenced her career path and enabled her to leave an indelible mark on countless lives.

Sharon was proud to have taught two of Brooklyn's most recognized hip-hop artists, the late Christopher “Biggie Smalls” Wallace and Kimberly “Lil Kim” Jones. As an educator, she inspired, encouraged, and uplifted those around her. She dedicated herself to nurturing young minds through her work at Irving Place Daycare Center in Brooklyn, New York, where her compassion and commitment to children were evident every day.

In 1982, Sharon met David Jones. Their relationship blossomed and they were united in marriage on June 22, 1985. Together, they built a loving home filled with laughter, support, accomplishment, and treasured memories.

Although Sharon and David did not have biological children, Sharon's nurturing spirit touched the lives of many. She often referred to her beloved nephew, Dewayne “Snoopy” Baker Jr., as her son and embraced countless children as her own throughout her life. Her guidance, encouragement, and unconditional love helped shape the lives of many young people.

Sharon had a passion for travel and adventure. She enjoyed exploring the world alongside family and friends, creating memories in destinations such as Las Vegas, Jamaica, Hawaii, Venezuela, St. Croix, and St. Thomas. She found great joy in hosting family gatherings and holiday celebrations, bringing loved ones together with warmth and hospitality.

Known for her vibrant personality, Sharon was truly a social butterfly. Her ability to connect with people allowed her to cultivate lifelong friendships that spanned decades. She was often the life of the party, bringing joy, laughter, and positivity wherever she went. To know Sharon was to love her. She was kind, loving, generous, and welcoming to all who crossed her path.

Sharon leaves to cherish her memory her sister, Cynthia Baker; her brother-in-law, Dewayne Baker Sr.; her brother, Ernest Leneau, and family; her beloved nieces and nephews: Dewayne (Snoopy) Baker Jr., Shalena Baker, Zulima Leneau, Christopher Leneau, Shania Baker, Devoni Baker, Ciyahna Baker, Denell Baker, Daleia Baker, Dalisa Baker, Demari Baker, and Zayvion Brown; along with a host of cousins, relatives, dear friends, former students, and associates whose lives were blessed by her presence.

Though Sharon's earthly journey has ended, her legacy of love, education, kindness, and service will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. Her memory will remain a source of inspiration and comfort for generations to come.

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant."
— Matthew 25:23