Sharon Lee Nolte's Obituary
DECATUR – Sharon Lee (Farney) Nolte, 80, of Decatur passed away Friday, April 18, 2025. Sharon was born July 18, 1944, in Moline, the daughter of Helen A. (Underfanger) and James W. Farney. After the passing of their father, Sharon and her brother, Jim, were raised by their mother and Aunt and Uncle, Jean and Glenn Marshall. Sharon married Henry O. Nolte on May 5, 1978 at Decatur.
Sharon attended Catholic schools in Springfield and Decatur, graduating from St. Teresa High School in 1962. Sharon had a three decade career with Illinois Bell as a telephone operator. In retirement, Sharon volunteered with Scovill Zoo, where she enjoyed driving the train, taking animals to mobile zoo events and television interviews, and being around the animals. Sharon was also a volunteer with the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County. Sharon was a fixture at the New Salem and Bement Country Oprys for many years.
Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Henry Nolte; her parents; and her brother, Jim Farney.
Survivors include Sharon’s special friends of more than 70 years, Rochelle and Russ Hood of Decatur; sister-in-law Judy Farney of Urbana; step-children Robert Nolte of Germany and Janet Nolte-Davis of Texas; nephews and nieces John Farney of St. Joseph; Nick Farney of Philo; Jessica Heitner of Joliet; and Stacy Keller of Florissant, Mo.
Funeral services will be at Moran & Gobel Funeral Home, 2801 N. Monroe St, Decatur, at 11 a.m. Wednesday, April 30 with visitation starting at 10 a.m. Burial will follow at Calvary Cemetery, Springfield. In accordance with Sharon’s wishes, casual attire is recommended.
Memorials may be made to the Humane Society of Decatur and Macon County.
Condolences may be left at www.moranandgobel.com.
What’s your fondest memory of Sharon?
What’s a lesson you learned from Sharon?
Share a story where Sharon's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Sharon you’ll never forget.
How did Sharon make you smile?
