Sharon Anderson

Sharon Ann Anderson of Gainesville died Friday, October 10, 2025 at Shands Hospital after a courageous and spirited struggle with ovarian cancer. She was 82.

Sharon was born in Altoona, PA, June 6, 1944. She 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 masters degree from Florida State University.

She made a career, and the world a better place, 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 with 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 organizations 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 dear 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, Vicki Gassner and many more.

In Lieu of flowers, those who wish may contribute in Sharon’s memory to the pet rescue organization of their choice.