Joann Lillian Sharkey

Joann Lillian Sharkey, 96, of Highland, passed away peacefully at her home on February 2, 2026. Born in Hammond, IN to Lillian (nee Barenie) and Frank Sharkey, she was the third of six children. Joann attended Hammond High School and then put herself through college at Ball State and Indiana University, where she studied elementary education. She went on to teach for 33 years in the Hammond School System, serving students at Edison, Orchard Drive, and Morton Elementary Schools. 

As a teacher, Joann was held in high regard for her work ethic, knowledge, sense of humor, and genuine love of teaching—she was the kind of teacher parents wanted for their own children. Throughout her life, she fostered a deep love of learning, especially for the natural world. Her home and classrooms were museum-like, filled with rocks, seashells, fossils, and bird figurines that she delighted in sharing with anyone who showed curiosity. Her enthusiasm for science and nature was contagious, leaving a lifelong impact on countless lives.

Joann spent many summers gardening and traveling, exploring the country’s historic sites and natural wonders with close friends and relatives—often with a pair of binoculars in tow. Always active, she found a way to exercise every day, usually alongside her friends – which no doubt was a key to her long-life and enduring happiness. In retirement, she doubled down on her love of traveling and gardening, becoming a master gardener and volunteering in her community with her sister Judy. 

Above all, Joann loved children and her dogs, both never failed to bring a big smile to her face. She had a joyful, playful spirit that age could not diminish, and a one-of-a-kind laugh that was so unmistakably Joann. 

Joann will be remembered for her generosity of spirit, her steadfast faith, and her enduring influence as a teacher, mentor, and lifelong learner. Her legacy lives on in the many lives she touched, and in the seeds—both literal and figurative—that she planted throughout her remarkable life. She will be deeply missed by her sister, Judy Pawlus; her sister-in-law, Pixie Sharkey; many nieces and nephews; great-nieces and nephews; great-great-nieces and nephews; the many friends whose lives she touched; and her beloved dog Porter.

Funeral Service will be held on Friday, February 20, 2026 at 10:30 am at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church, 3025 Highway Avenue Highland, IN with Rev. Brian Chadwick officiating.

Friends are invited to meet with the family on Friday morning from 9:45am until time of service. 

Burial to follow at St. John/St. Joseph Catholic Cemetery, Hammond, IN. 

For additional information, please contact Hillside Funeral Home, Konnie Kuiper - Michael Kuiper-Vass by calling us at 219-838-0800 or visiting us at www.hillsidefhcares.com

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joann Lillian Sharkey, please visit our floral store.