Obituary

Sharon Lynn Blades

February 10, 1943 - December 20, 2023

Sharon Lynn Blades, a beloved resident of Gonzales, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on December 20, 2023. She was born on February 10, 1943, in Columbia, South Carolina, to Raymond Harold Pauley and Mary Idanell Hensley. After graduating from McAllen High School in 1961, Sharon moved to Baton Rouge, where she attended Louisiana State University and met the love of her life, Wilbur "Bo" Blades. They were married and shared a remarkable bond filled with love, laughter, and devotion to each other and the family they created. Their legacy of love and dedication will forever be cherished and an example to their family and all who had the privilege of knowing them together.

Sharon was a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, and friend. She was a pillar of strength and an unwavering support system for her family and anyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Her love was a lifeline, a source of strength that her family could always rely on. She was known for her selflessness, generosity, and ability to remind others to not take life too seriously.

Having the talent for anticipating the needs of others, she never came to an event empty-handed and didn't wait to be asked for help. She used this same God given gift to devote years of her life volunteering with her church to provide and be a soothing presence for those in need. She was always there to listen whether that was on the front porch in her rocking chair with a cup of coffee or a phone call away. She was a rock to lean on for many and even made sure to never miss the birth of a grandchild or great grandchild throughout all of her years.

Sharon was also known for her sense of humor, and her quick wit brought laughter on many occasions. Her family fondly remembers her humorous remarks during ball games, saying things that would leave Bo and the rest of the family holding their breath as her grand babies and great grand babies could do no wrong in her eyes.

Sharon’s legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and memories of her loved ones. She was a vibrant and spunky soul, always radiating positivity and nurturing the spirit of her loved ones. Her unwavering support and love will forever be a guiding light, reminding those who knew her to believe in themselves and embrace life's challenges with courage, determination, and of course laughter.

Sharon was predeceased by her parents, Raymond Harold Pauley and Mary Idanell Hensley. 

She is survived by her loving husband, Wilbur Ralph Blades, and their children: William Gene Blades (and Julie), John Ralph Blades (and Suzann), Jennifer Lynn Blades Howell (and Cliff), and James Rafe Blades (and Carrie). She is also survived by her half brothers: Mike Pauley (and Susan), Mark Pauley (and Donna), and Jeff Pauley (and Judy). Sharon leaves behind a legacy of love and compassion through her grandchildren: Bryndi Blades Dixon (and Jonathon), David Malone, Jacee Blades Allison (and Brandon), Hannah Howell Goloforo (and Drew), Landen Rafe Blades, Austin Cole Blades, Victoria Howell Bashrum (and Dillon), Scout Elizabeth Blades, and Cooper James Blades. Her great-grandchildren Kali Malone, Layton Dixon, Grace Malone, Brody Dixon, Adlee Dixon, Olsen Goloforo, Ashton Blades, Elliott Allison, Dawson Bashrum, and Bowen Bashrum will forever cherish her memory. Sharon also leaves behind numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends who were blessed to have known her.

The Blades family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to Sharon's caregivers at The Carpenter House for their exceptional care and support during her final days. Sharon's presence will be deeply missed, but her love and kindness will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.

Visitation will be from 9:00AM until religious services 1:00PM on Saturday, December 23, 2023 at Pine Ridge Methodist Church, 3893 Highway 440, Kentwood, LA 70444. Interment will follow in Pine Ridge Cemetery, Kentwood, LA. Pallbearers will be Rafe Blades, Cooper Blades, Austin Blades, Drew Goloforo, Dillon Bashrum, Brandson Allison, Jonathan Dixon, and Kenneth Cody. 

McKneely Funeral Home, Kentwood, in charge of arrangements.