Sharon A. (Williams) Baptista

In Loving Memory of Sharon Baptista (Williams)

A distinguished alumna of Cranston High School East and the University of Rhode Island (URI) peacefully departed this world on Thursday, December 14, 2023 at the Briarcliffe Gardens in Johnston following a valiant battle against frontotemporal dementia (FTD). Sharon, the cherished wife of the late Ernest P. Baptista, Jr. and the daughter of the late Anthony & Jennie Williams (DiTraglia), formerly of Cranston, leaves behind a legacy of love and strength. She is survived by her adoring family, including her daughter Jennifer A. Baptista of Warwick, her son Peter A. Baptista and his wife Carra Beth Baptista of Cranston, her sisters Patricia (Williams) Troiano, Judith (Williams) Passante and her husband Alan Passante, and her brother-in-law Raymond Baptista and his partner Danielle Amicarelli of North Providence, as well as many extended family and close friends.

Sharon's roots were deeply embedded in the Forest Hills neighborhood of Cranston, where she grew up steps away from the family nursery and later settled to raise her own family. The beauty of her surroundings brought her solace and joy, especially during the summers at the family beach house in Narragansett, where love and laughter echoed through the generations.

A proud alumna of Cranston High School East (class of 1970), Sharon cultivated lifelong friendships that became integral to her journey. She continued her educational pursuits at the University of Rhode Island, graduating in 1974. After graduating, Sharon worked in the Public Affairs Department for the Automobile Association of America (AAA) until she transitioned into the enriching role of a full-time homemaker. Her love and devotion served as the bedrock of her family life.

In 1980, Sharon married her beloved husband, Ernest (previously deceased), embarking on a partnership filled with love, laughter, and shared dreams. Sharon's role as a devoted mother defined her existence as she poured her heart and soul into creating a warm, nurturing home for her family.

While Sharon found great joy at home, she also cherished her travel adventures, including trips to her beloved Bermuda. Exploring new destinations and revisiting cherished places, she created lasting memories that enriched the fabric of her life.

Sharon's love for animals was an enduring theme throughout her life. From her childhood black poodle, Sherie, to her Shih-Tzu companions, Cassie and Chloe, she found joy, companionship, and unwavering loyalty in her furry friends. Her love extended to her granddog, Sadie, adding a layer of joy and warmth to the family.

Family was at the heart of Sharon's world, and she never missed a family event. Her pride in her two sisters and six nieces and nephews was immeasurable, and she celebrated their achievements joyfully. Sharon's warmth and welcoming nature forged lasting friendships near and far.

Funeral from the NARDOLILLO FUNERAL HOME & Crematory, 1278 Park Ave., Cranston on Wednesday, December 20th at 9:45 a.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 11:00 a.m. in St. Mary’s Church, Cranston.  Burial will take place in St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston.  VISITING HOURS will be Tuesday, December 19th from 4:00 – 7:00 p.m.  Friends and family are invited to join in celebrating Sharon's life and sharing cherished memories.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to The Association for Frontotemporal Degeneration, 2700 Horizon Drive, Suite 120 King of Prussia, PA 19406 ( http://www.theaftd.org ) or the East Greenwich Animal Protection League; Please make checks payable to EGAPL, 44 Worthington Road, Cranston, RI 02920 ( https://heartofri.org/ ) in Sharon's honor.

"Those we love don't go away; they walk beside us every day. Unseen, unheard, but always near; still loved, still missed, and very dear." - Anonymous