It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Sharon Keplar, a beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend. Sharon passed away peacefully on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at the age of 78. Born in Harrisburg, Illinois, Sharon brought joy and warmth to all those who knew her. She was the daughter of Lewis Tomlinson and Mary Belle (Wilson) Tomlinson. She married Harold Michael Canada, and they later divorced. On August 23, 1975, she married Charles “Bill” Keplar, and he preceded her in death on June 10, 2009.
Sharon devoted much of her life to her work as a waitress and cook, notably spending many years at the Happy Cow in Caseyville, where she formed lasting friendships with colleagues and patrons alike. Her artistic spirit shone through in her love for sewing and crafting Christmas ornaments, and her passion for sports was evident in her unwavering support for the St. Louis Cardinals and NASCAR.
More than anything, Sharon treasured the time spent with her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, cherished moments with her grandchildren, and joyous family gatherings.
Sharon is survived by her daughter, Diana Jackson, and husband Harold of Centralia, Illinois, Wendy Merritt and husband Scott of Salem, MO, and son Harold Canada of Alabama. Her siblings, Shirley Ray (Danny) of Staunton, IL; Christina Partridge of Gilispie, IL; Rick Tomlinson (Cindy) of Staunton, IL, and Ed Tomlinson (Linda) of Plainview, IL, also mourn her passing. Sharon was a proud grandmother to Bradley Burkes of Texas, Darrien Lowry, Jakeb Storck of St. Elmo, Cody Merritt of Salem, MO, Austin Merritt of Joplin, MO, Allison Merritt of Salem MO, Steven Canada, Jr of Illinois and Brianna Canada of Alabama, Harold Canada, Jr. and wife Allana of Alabama, Merissa Beck and Ken of Missouri, Kiefer Jackson (Kayla) of Centralia, M’Kayla Jackson of Arkansas, and William Jackson and Elizabeth of Missouri. Her great-grandchildren, Jayden, Zeke, Aurora, Sam, Sophia, Decklyn, Layhdia, Scarlett, Damian, Sophya, Travis, Everett, Ryan, and Jace, will grow up hearing stories of her love and generosity.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Lewis and Mary Belle Tomlinson; her beloved spouse, Charles Keplar; her son, Steve Canada; her sister, Mary K. “Kathy” Roseberry; and her grandson, Dwight “Bubba” Marcum.
A visitation will be held on Monday, November 17, 2025, from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home. A primary service will follow at 1:00 PM. Sharon will be laid to rest at the Jefferson Barracks Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Six Lemons. They will be accepted at the Sutherland-Garnier Funeral Home located at 235 North Sycamore Street, Centralia, Illinois 62801, (618) 532-3523, who is honored to be of service to Sharon’s Family. Online condolences may be made to the family by visiting http://www.
Sharon will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to live on through the countless lives she touched. May she rest in peace.
