Sharon Lea Holmes

Sharon Lea Holmes, 84, of Topeka, Kansas, passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2026.

Sharon was born on June 28, 1941, in Maple Hill, Kansas, to Darreld and Mabel Sloan. At just 13 years old, she experienced the heartbreaking loss of her mother to cancer. From that young age, Sharon stepped into the role of caregiver for her younger sister and baby brother, taking on the responsibilities of cooking, cleaning, and managing the household. These early years shaped her into the resilient, hardworking woman she remained throughout her life—often outworking those half her age.

Later, Sharon met the love of her life, Melvin, while he was attending trade school. They married and built a family together, welcoming Danny, Sherry, and Kevin. Her devotion to her family was evident in everything she did.

Sharon was an incredible cook who found joy in feeding those she loved. She worked as a cook at the Chic-A-Dee Café in East Topeka and at Larribee’s Steakhouse, where she perfected her beloved homemade blue cheese dressing recipe. In later years, Chic-A-Dee welcomed her back as a hostess, a role she enjoyed as she greeted friends and neighbors with warmth.

Her kitchen was the heart of many cherished memories. Each Christmas, family and friends eagerly anticipated the candy she lovingly made and shared, especially her peanut clusters and fudge. Preparing meals and baked goods was her love language, and she expressed it generously.

Sharon is survived by her son Danny Holmes and his wife Wanda; her son Kevin Holmes and his wife Rachel; her daughter Annette Holderrieth and her husband Drew; her sister Bonnie Pinick; her brother Darreld Sloan and his wife Donna; and numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews who will carry her memory forward.

A private family celebration of Sharon’s life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, condolences may be sent to Restoration House Ministries, P.O. Box 4958, Topeka, KS 66604.

Sharon’s strength, generosity, and unwavering love for her family will be remembered always.