Sharon Lucy (Jensen) Mayer, 77, went home to be with her Lord on April 24, 2026, leaving behind a life full of love, faith, and care for others.
Sharon was born June 9, 1948, in Chicago, Illinois, the oldest of seven children to Thurlo and Albertine (Simon) Jensen. She grew up near Owanka, South Dakota, where she quickly became a second set of hands in raising her younger siblings. From the very beginning, she had a way with children, steady, patient, and full of heart. She attended a one-room schoolhouse in Lakeside, where her lifelong love of learning began.
After graduating from New Underwood High School, Sharon went to work as a nurse assistant at Bennett Clarkson Memorial Hospital. It was there she met Bob, the love of her life. They were married on June 8, 1968, and built a beautiful life together over the next 57 years side by side through everything.
In those early years, Sharon found her knack for business selling Sarah Coventry jewelry, working her way up to regional manager and earning many awards along the way. She and Bob also opened their home to exchange students early in their marriage, reflecting their generosity and welcoming hearts.
Her life took on new meaning with the birth of her daughter, Marguerite (Margo). Sharon chose to channel her talents into building a home daycare, where she cared for countless children with the same dedication and warmth she showed her own. It was never just a job to her; it was who she was.
Somewhere in the middle of raising a family and caring for others, Sharon became a tax preparer, manager, and accountant, eventually opening A2Z Business and Tax Service. She had a sharp mind and a way of making complicated things feel manageable. Even in “retirement,” she didn’t really slow down, continuing to help people as a freelance consultant and even working as an online support agent for TurboTax.
Sharon was not all work, she also found joy bird watching, tending to her garden, and driving and camping in the hills. She especially enjoyed touring the country in their PT Cruiser.
Her greatest joy, though, was her family. She loved being a grandma more than anything. Hayden and Lance were her whole world. She was the fun grandma, the one driving the minivan, picking up kids, always with a snack or a little treat, and always making things feel special.
Even in her recent health challenges, when she was in the hospital or a nursing home, Sharon’s spirit never changed. She had a way of making the best of things, choosing joy and helping others do the same. She brought light to those around her—often turning ordinary days into little celebrations, complete with a party, a laugh, or a small trinket to make someone smile.
Sharon loved Jesus, and she wasn’t shy about it. She shared her faith in everyday ways through encouragement, through kindness, and yes, even through the positive memes she loved to send. It was simple and real and completely her.
She is survived by her husband, Bob; her daughter, Margo (Jeff); her grandchildren, Hayden and Lance; her exchange daughter, Cathy Bravo (Jorge); her brothers Steve (Kathy), Mark (Fleda), Rodger, and Greg (Samantha); her sisters Janette (Dennis) and Julie (Joe); and so many nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Thurlo and Albertine (Simon) Jensen; many aunts and uncles; and her nephew, Aaron.
Services will be held on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, at Divine Shepherd Lutheran Church in Black Hawk, South Dakota. Visitation will be one hour prior, with the service at 10:00 a.m. Entombment will follow at Pine Lawn Memorial Park, returning to the church fellowship hall for a luncheon and time to share memories.
Cards may be sent to PO Box 3113, Rapid City, SD 57709.
She took care of people her whole life—quietly, faithfully, and without needing recognition. That’s how we’ll remember her.

A memorial has been established.

Friends and family are invited to sign the online guest register and leave written condolences at WestRiverfd.com.

Arrangements are under the directions of Dean Moncur at West River Funeral Directors in Rapid City.