Sharon A. Hoskins, 84, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Allure Nursing Home in Mt. Carroll, Illinois. A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
Sharon was born on August 17, 1940, in Rockford, Illinois, daughter of Herbert and Lillian (Ruskuski) Nyman. She grew up in Rockford and attended local schools, graduating from East High School in the class of 1958. It was during these early years that Sharon developed the kindness and grace that would become hallmarks of her life.
Not long after high school, Sharon met the love of her life, Donald Hoskins Sr. The couple married on August 24, 1963, and together they built a strong and loving family, celebrating 60 wonderful years of marriage. Sharon and Donald settled in the Rockford area, where Donald operated the Fairview Barbering Salon, and Sharon worked as a secretary before dedicating herself to raising their three children. When her youngest child reached high school, Sharon returned to the workforce, balancing her roles as a devoted wife, mother, and professional.
Later in life, Sharon and Donald moved to Shannon, Illinois, to be closer to their family. Sharon’s love for her family was the cornerstone of her life. She was a nurturing mother and grandmother, a caregiver at heart, and a constant source of support for her loved ones. Sharon cherished spending time with her grandchildren, always eager to hear about their lives, offer advice, or simply share a warm conversation.
A true animal lover, Sharon welcomed a variety of pets into her home over the years, including cats, dogs, turtles, guinea pigs, and more. Despite Donald’s reservations about cats, Sharon’s gentle persistence always won out. Her love for animals mirrored the kindness she extended to everyone around her.
Sharon was known for her elegance and poise. She carried herself with dignity, always "prim and proper," even as she grew older. She had a peaceful demeanor, never judgmental or harsh, and was a model of love and patience. In her quiet moments, Sharon enjoyed solving puzzle books, playing games on her phone, and caring for her plants and flowers. She loved reading romance novels and sharing evenings with her daughter and granddaughter, watching old TV shows and soap operas. Sharon will be remembered for her selflessness, her unwavering devotion to her family, and her ability to bring comfort and joy to those around her.
She is survived by her daughter, Michele Kindberg of Shannon, IL; her son, David Hoskins of Machesney Park, IL; her grandchildren, Lea, Logan, and Isabella Hoskins, as well as Lilly and Mason Kindberg; her brother-in-law, Keith (Rose) Hoskins of Loves Park, IL; and her sister-in-law, Julie (John) Kotleba of Pinehurst, NC. Sharon was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Donald Sr.; her son, Donald Jr.; and her parents, Herbert and Lillian Nyman.