Sharon Kay Chesmore

Sharon K. Chesmore, 81, passed away on September 27, 2026. She was born in December 1944 in Vallejo, California, to Stanley Monroe, Jr. and Lolarene Monroe.

Sharon's life was one of dedication, adventure, and an unwavering commitment to family and community. Having grown up in a military family, she was no stranger to change, living in 24 different places throughout her life before eventually settling in Derby, Kansas. She later married into the military, continuing a life of travel and new experiences alongside her husband, David "Chester" Chesmore.

Sharon met Chester in 1964 at Allen's Drive-In in Topeka, Kansas. Their connection was immediate, and just six weeks later, they were married, with Chester proudly wearing his military dress blues. Together, they shared 61 years of marriage, raising their two daughters, building a family, and creating a lifetime of memories. In 1968, while Chester was serving in Southeast Asia, it took four days to locate him so he could be notified that he had become the proud father of a daughter.

Throughout her life, Sharon had a passion for teaching, helping others, and being involved in her community. While stationed in Florida, she became a certified Water Safety Instructor through the American Red Cross. After moving to Derby, she established the "Learn to Swim" program at McConnell Air Force Base, dedicating 13 years to teaching swimming and water safety. In 1993, she began working at the Derby Recreation Center, where she continued teaching swimming lessons until 2022. Over the years, Sharon taught countless children and adults how to swim, sharing not only her knowledge and skills but also the importance of water safety. Her influence extended far beyond the pool, leaving a lasting impression on the many lives she touched.

Sharon's dedication to her family and community extended well beyond swimming. She served as a Girl Scout troop leader for both of her daughters, helping guide and encourage young girls as they grew. She was also deeply involved with the Derby High School marching band for 17 years, making uniform adjustments whenever needed and chaperoning band trips. Her commitment to the band continued even after both of her daughters had graduated, demonstrating the genuine care and support she had for the students and the program.

In 2001, Sharon was diagnosed with breast cancer, an experience that led her to become actively involved with Victory in the Valley, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. She understood the importance of having support through difficult times and devoted herself to an organization that provided comfort and encouragement to others facing similar challenges. In honor of Sharon's life and her connection to the organization, memorial contributions may be made to Victory in the Valley.

Sharon and Chester also shared a love of music, travel, and friendship. In 1998, they began traveling with Village Tours, exploring destinations throughout the country and enjoying the adventures along the way. Their love of music eventually led them to become members of the Western Music Association in 2003. Through their travels, they formed many lasting friendships and enjoyed countless opportunities to gather, share music, and jam with fellow music enthusiasts. Their involvement in the bluegrass and Western music communities became a cherished part of their lives, bringing them joy, adventure, and friendships that spanned the country.

Whether she was teaching someone to swim, sewing and making adjustments to a marching band uniform, volunteering her time, supporting others through cancer, or traveling with Chester to enjoy their beloved music, Sharon gave generously of herself. She was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, teacher, and friend whose life was defined by the many people she helped and the relationships she built along the way.

Sharon was preceded in death by her father, Stanley Monroe, Jr.; her mother, Lolarene Bliss; and her stepfather, Lyle Bliss.

She is survived by her loving husband of 61 years, David "Chester" Chesmore; daughters, Debbie (Jim) Edgcomb and Lori (Frank) Fisher; grandsons, Ryan Edgcomb and Tyler Edgcomb; and brother, Mike (Lorraine) Monroe.

A celebration of Sharon's life will be held at a future date.

Memorial contributions may be made in Sharon's name to Victory in the Valley, 3755 E. Douglas Ave., Wichita, KS 67218.