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Sharon Ann Anderson, 82, of Gainesville, Fla., died at UF Shands Hospital after a courageous and spirited struggle with ovarian cancer. She was born in Altoona and graduated from Hollidaysburg High School, where she made stellar grades and was crowned Sweetheart of the Future Farmers of America.
Sharon received a bachelor's degree in history, with honors, from the University of North Florida and her master's degree from Florida State University.
She made the world a better place with a career researching programs and policy for the aging, first for the Florida State Legislature, then at the Florida Mental Health Institute at the University of South Florida, and completed her life's work at the U.S. Veterans Administration.
Sharon loved the beach and dogs, especially her sweet girl, Tory. She was active in animal rights, a member of Haile's Angels pet rescue and contributor to many other groups that cared for those not always able to care for themselves.
Sharon is survived by her husband of 43 years, John Matthews of Gainesville, a Gator who came to be a Penn State fan by association. She is also survived by her sister, Carol Anderson Cox of Gainesville; and brothers, Mike (Cathy) and Patrick (Debbie) of Altoona.
Among the many friends who will miss Sharon are: Donna Wilt, with whom she attended a little, red, one-room school in Pennsylvania; and long-time pals, Hana Osman and Vicki Gansser.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute in Sharon's memory to the pet rescue organization of their choice.