Sharon Cecilia Gard, 79, of Burlington, passed away on Thursday, June 18, 2026, at the Azria Health Prairie Ridge in Mediapolis.
Born January 12, 1947 in Burlington, she was the daughter of John Anthony and Ethel Elizabeth Thomas Bednar. On June 1, 1968, she married Ralph Gordon Gard in Burlington. He died on April 6, 2006.
Sharon was a 1965 graduate of Burlington Notre Dame High School. Throughout her working years, she was employed as a certified nursing assistant at Burlington Care Center and Lamont, and she also worked for IAAP..
A devoted member of Divine Mercy Parish, Sharon enjoyed singing in the church choir. She found pleasure in word puzzles, bingo, and playing cards with friends. She had a special love for animals, especially tropical fish, dogs, and cats. Sharon was also a devoted fan of Elvis Presley and enjoyed listening to his music. Above all else, she cherished her family and looked forward to celebrating the holidays, always making sure each loved one received a special gift.
Survivors include brother-in-law, Mike Leathers of Oskaloosa; two nieces, Amanda Tessier of Burlington, and Tina (Michael) Richardson of Des Moines; one nephew, Steve (Sara) Leathers of Oxford; great nieces and nephew, Shelby, Kelsey, and Levi.
Beside her husband she was preceded in death by her parents, son, Michael Gard, sister, Donna Tessier-Leathers and uncle, Albert (Vernal) Bednar.
Visitation will be from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street.
The funeral service for Mrs. Gard will be 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, June 24, 2026, at Prugh Funeral Service, 3940 Division Street. Burial will be in Burlington Memorial Park Cemetery at a later date.
A memorial has been established for PAWS Animal Shelter in Ft. Madison.