Sharon S. Grigsby
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Died October 13, 2026. Predeceased by her loving husband, Paul. Survived by her daughters Gale (Keith) O’Toole and Cara (Chuck) Hanrahan, grandchildren Joshua and Alexander O’Toole and Emily Hanrahan.
Sharon completed her bachelor’s degree at SUNY Empire State College and went on to spend nearly 30 years there in various roles. Her fearless nature, love of challenges and dexterity with words led to myriad special projects. Many in the community know her from the thousands of information sessions for prospective students that she conducted over her career. Sharon was passionate about education and took particular delight in working with adult students and alumni to “open a door” through which they might see new possibilities.
Sharon’s affinity for “river places” was nurtured throughout her childhood in Florida and culminated in her cherished island house in the St. Lawrence River. She took great joy in sharing this special place with family and friends over the years while also basking in the peace and solitude she found there. Fiercely independent, she captained her boat, and life, on her terms.
Her Celebration of Life will be held Saturday, November 14, at 2:00pm at Asbury First United Methodist Church, 1050 East Avenue. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to your favorite charity.
My deepest sympathies go out to the entire family. Sharon was the most fiery, independent woman I’ve ever known. I take solace knowing she is now reunited with Paul. ❤️
My sincere condolances to Cara, Chuck, Emily, entire family, and friends.
She sounds like an amazing person.
So shocked and sad to hear about Sharon’s passing. I have happy memories of her hospitality at her River home in Canada and will remember her for her wit and kindness. Love to Cara, Gale and families.
Summers in the 1000 Islands and Christmas seasons just won’t feel the same without Sharon to share them with or her famously delicious fruitcakes to enjoy with family and friends. I like to imagine that she and Paul are now reunited on a cosmic river somewhere and have their choice of Nonsuch, pontoon boat, or jet boat to cruise around on together at their pleasure. My deep and sincere condolences to Sharon’s surviving family over your loss. She will be sorely missed and fondly remembered by all who knew her and admired her charitable demeanor and indomitable spirit.
My sincere condolences to Sharon’s family. I’m blessed to have crossed her path and receive her guidance in my road to higher education.
Bob Nazzaro
I extend my condolences to Sharon’s family. I remember her from my time as a student at Empire State College as a conscientious and helpful person and a great asset to the institution. May the Lord hold her in His loving arms.
My heartfelt condolences to you and your family. I always loved when she would stop by my desk and we’d have a little chat before she left. She was such a wonderful conversationalist, and I always enjoyed our conversations. She will be fondly remembered.
Cara, my heart aches for you and your family. I know the ache, but know she will be in your heart forever. Hugs
Cara and Gail and your families, I send my deepest sympathy on your Mother’s passing.
You will remember that I knew her as a young woman who was full of energy, passion, and determination. She was an active member of the Greece Community and the School District and spearheaded many innovations in resident and parent involvement. I so admired her vision and optimism. I enjoyed so many wonderful conversations with her including those about her beloved daughters. My heart and prayers are with your famines.
Gale, we are so very sorry for the loss of your mom. Although we didn’t know her personally, we certainly got to experience a little bit of her through the wonderful treats she made and you shared with us. We are thinking of you and your family and keeping you close in our thoughts during this difficult time.
Dear Gail and Cara,
I remember your mom with fondness. Her enthusiasm, her many ideas and her thurst for making things better helped the members of our staff, at Autumn Lane, engage with her as a partner in efforts to improve education for you and your classmates. She would often fly into my office to share something that she thought I should know. I remember how direct and focused were her comments, making certain that I might be properly informed. She was a treat. Her school presence in classrooms, the general school, in the district and in the larger community were welcomed and appreciated.
And, I remember the two of you as well. I trust that life has treated you well and that you are happy with surrounding friends and members of your families. I know that your mom will be missed. She helped make you who you are. I expect that that is some level of senstational…..My condolences….
I offer you my deepest and most sincere condolences. I had the pleasure of knowing your wonderful mother at the cottage in the Thousand Islands, Ontario.
Because of our language barrier, our conversations were simple. I could understand what she was saying, but I couldn’t respond back to her. Yet, just seeing each other and exchanging a warm “hello, how are you?” always made me so happy. My partner also really enjoyed talking with her and lending a helping hand whenever she needed it.
We are truly grateful to have known her. May she rest in peace up there, wherever she may be, and may she continue to sail close to us. My thoughts are with you and your family.