Sharon Jo Barbee

Sharon Jo Kerr Barbee, 74, a longtime resident of Cabarrus County, passed away on June 5, 2026, following injuries sustained in an automobile accident shortly after the loss of her husband.

Sharon was born on March 12, 1952, in Mooresville, North Carolina, to Floyd "Jack" Trenton Kerr and Lily Josephine Overcash Kerr. She was raised in Kannapolis and spent the rest of her life in the Concord and Kannapolis communities.

Sharon graduated from Northwest Cabarrus High School and went on to Appalachian State University, where she earned a Bachelor's Degree in Education. She returned to Northwest Cabarrus High School to begin what would become a remarkable career teaching mathematics for over 30 years.

Throughout her career, Sharon was more than a teacher; she was a mentor, advocate, and steady presence for generations of students. She served as a cheerleading coach and dedicated countless hours outside the classroom tutoring students. Early in her career, she was often seen as a "second mother" to many, and she continued that role for decades, helping even the most reluctant students grasp complex concepts with patience and clarity. Her ability to connect, simplify, and encourage left a lasting impact on countless lives.

Even in retirement, Sharon's passion for teaching never faded. She continued tutoring students at her well-worn kitchen table, a place that became just as meaningful as any classroom.

Sharon deeply loved her grandchildren and was the driving force behind many of their shared experiences. She made it a priority to bring the family together, organizing frequent trips to the beach and to Dollywood; her favorite destination. In the day-to-day, she was equally present: a dependable chauffeur, a steady source of support and encouragement, and a trusted tutor whenever help was needed. Her home was a place of comfort, laughter, and refuge for her grandchildren.

Sharon was a devoted member of Poplar Tent Presbyterian Church, where she served as a Sunday school teacher and was active in the women's circle. She gave her time generously to Vacation Bible School and seasonal church activities. She was also a familiar and beloved presence at the church's annual barbecue, most notably running the window at the take-home plate stand. Sharon proudly served as President of her Alpha Delta Kappa chapter.

She will be remembered for her patience, warmth, and her gift for meeting people where they were and helping them succeed.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles "Charlie" Martin Barbee; her parents, Floyd "Jack" Trenton Kerr and Lily Josephine Overcash Kerr; and her brother, Bernie Kerr.

She is survived by her sons, Paul Barbee and wife Danielle, and Kevin Barbee and wife Hillary; her grandchildren, Emmaline-June, Miłosz, Caleb, and Payton; her sister, Jennie Kerr Dishman and husband Jim; her brother, Floyd Kerr and wife Nelda; her sister-in-law, JoAnn Kerr; and several nieces and nephews, including Natalie Kerr, Jeff Dishman and wife Debi, and Eric Dishman and wife Ashley.

The family will receive friends on Sunday, June 28, from 4:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Wilkinson Funeral Home. A joint funeral service will be held on Monday, June 29, at 6:00 p.m., at Poplar Tent Presbyterian Church, with interment to follow in the church cemetery.

Sharon's wishes for cremation will be honored, and her cremains will be interred at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alpha Delta Kappa Fidelis Kappa Chapter in memory of Sharon Barbee. The Sharon Barbee ADK Fidelis Kappa Altruistic Memorial Fund has been established, and donations may be mailed to 350 Dogwood Lane, Harrisburg, NC 28075.