April 26, 1946 ~ September 7, 2023
Dr. Sharon Ann Dawson Southall lived a life filled with great joy and abundant blessings. She was born to Vivian Gurney Dawson and Ernest Carl Dawson on April 26, 1946 and grew up in Baker, LA. She met the love of her life, Oscar McLemore Southall, at Baker High School in 1962. They were married in 1969 and were blessed with two wonderful children, Oscar Kevin and Kristina Lyn.
The blessings continued when their two children married exceptional spouses, Heidi Louque Southall and Leonard Barry Howell, Jr. From these unions, we have experienced the greatest joy with our five brilliant grandchildren. Kristi and Len live in Denham Springs and have two daughters, Emily Lyn and Anna Louise. Oscar Kevin and Heidi reside in Castle Pines, CO and are the parents of Abigail Marie, Andrew Dawson and Amelia Michelle.
Dr. Southall was a graduate of Baker High School and LSU with degrees in Elementary Education and Masters in Library and Information Sciences. Her desire for lifelong learning was realized when she was one of three to receive the first doctorate degree from Southeastern Louisiana University.
Her professional journey offered many opportunities for diverse experiences. She began as a teacher and librarian in Baker schools, then worked in instructional technology for East Baton Rouge Parish School System and Louisiana State Department of Education. After working in Pk-12 education, she began work in higher education and was the Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs for the University of Louisiana System, followed being named Senior Policy Advisor to the Commissioner of Higher Education in Louisiana. Upon retirement, she began a new career as a national consultant with the Discovery Channel, Curriculum Associates, and Emergenetics. Through contracts with these companies, she worked in all but 10 states affording her the opportunity to meet the most remarkable and caring educators.
She is survived by her loving husband, Oscar, devoted children Oscar Kevin and Heidi, Kristi and Len, brother and sister-in-law Bill and Pam Dawson, a very special cousin Lyn Stevens, numerous other family members, and the five greatest grandchildren, Abbie, Anna, Andrew, Amelia, Emily and her special friend Christopher Miller.
A memorial service will be held at St. Francis Episcopal Church in Denham Springs at a later date. The family requests in lieu of flowers, a donation be made to St. Francis Episcopal Church, 726 Maple St., Denham Springs, LA 70726. Please sign the online guestbook at www.sealefuneral.com
9 comments
Sandra Green
June 11, 2024 at 5:12 pm
I am sorry to learn about the passing of Dr. Sharon Southall. My deepest condolences to her family. Sharon was always sweet, and kind and had a smile that would light up any room. It was a true joy to work with her at the University of Louisiana System Office.
Ginger Mitchell
September 22, 2023 at 9:08 pm
I’m so sorry to hear about Sharon. I’m one of your neighbors. Sharon and I would have chats now and then in the yard or as we crossed paths while outside; texting about the power being out or our flowerbed guy or whatever. I always enjoyed our talks. She was so sweet and pleasant despite what she was going through. As an educator, I marvel at what all she accomplished. You’ve all been in my prayers. May God cover you with His comfort, strength and love. Hold your memories close and draw comfort from them.
Bobby Turner
September 14, 2023 at 3:21 am
I am so sorry to hear this news. Oscar, my friend, you were sharing life with one of my favorite people. I know you will miss her. At Baker High, Sharon was one of the kindest people I ever knew and was always my favorite cheerleader. God will be taking good care of her. And God bless you too in the days ahead, O.
Carolyn R Kennedy
September 11, 2023 at 4:41 am
My deepest sympathy to the Southall family. I worked with Sharon at Baket High School and we were always sharing family news and work related issues. My heart is saddened and I will miss her.
Caroline Knaps
September 10, 2023 at 3:05 am
We just love everything about Sharon! Such a super sweet lady and always had a kind word, sweet smile or thoughtful thing to share. She had the ability to make everyone feel special. She will be missed so very much by all who loved her. We are praying for the whole family as they spend this time together remembering and upholding each other.
Randy and Caroline Knaps
Susan Brown
September 9, 2023 at 9:13 pm
What a wonderful soul we all lost. I remember when she called me at school to see if I wanted to take a job in a computer lab. She was always so kind and caring. Then when I had my second round of cancer, she would reach out to encourage me. Oscar I am so sorry for your loss, prayers for peace for you and all of your family. 🙏🏻
Teresa M Roebuck
September 9, 2023 at 8:24 pm
So sorry for your loss. I always enjoyed Sharon’s energy when we worked together at Discovery Education. Rest in Peace.
Judy and Robert McVea
September 9, 2023 at 5:18 pm
I haven’t seen Sharon since high school I remember her as such a kind and loving person.
It doesn’t surprise me that she was such an accomplished person.
Oscar, I am so sorry for you and your family’s lose.
Let your memories and knowing that she is pain free and in Jesus loving arms bring you and your family comfort.
Susan Kline Yeomans
September 9, 2023 at 2:23 pm
What a remarkable life she had – I’m so glad to have known her as she, Lyn and I grew up together on Buffwood Dr. in Baker -to her family, I am so sorry for your loss – she will be greatly missed –