Bobbie Jean West Sharp Williams-King
April 5, 1957 – July 1, 2016
Today marks ten years since Bobbie Jean West Sharp Williams-King entered eternal rest, yet her presence continues to be felt in the lives of all who were blessed to know and love her. Though a decade has passed, her beautiful spirit, unwavering faith, and lasting impact remain as vivid as ever.
Born on April 5, 1957, in Memphis, Tennessee, to the late Vervee Kearney and Robert West, Jr., Bobbie lived a life filled with purpose, grace, and joy. She embraced every opportunity to serve others, celebrate life, and create meaningful connections with family, friends, students, and her community.
A devoted member of Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church for more than twenty-five years, Bobbie faithfully served through the Angels of Praise, Ruth Circle, and Manna Outreach Ministry. Her commitment to her faith and her community reflected the compassion and generosity that defined her life.
Bobbie was a woman of many talents, passions, and gifts. She loved traveling the world, experiencing diverse cultures and cuisines, and expressing her vibrant personality through fashion and style. A creative artist at heart, she deeply appreciated cultural diversity in relationships, literature, art, and cuisine. Her elegance, confidence, curiosity, and warm smile left a lasting impression wherever she went.
Professionally, Bobbie dedicated twenty-six years to educating and inspiring students through Shelby County Schools, formerly Memphis City Schools. Before her career in education, she successfully owned and operated Classic Creations, a chain of beauty salons in the heart of South Memphis, where she empowered others through entrepreneurship and service.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Bobbie was a philanthropist and mentor whose influence extended far beyond the classroom and workplace. She changed the lives of countless young women by investing in their growth, broadening their horizons, and exposing them to opportunities and experiences they might not otherwise have encountered. Many are significantly different today because of her guidance, encouragement, and unwavering belief in their potential.
She was also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Incorporated, and the Red Hat Society, organizations through which she built lifelong friendships and continued her commitment to uplifting others.
As we honor her memory ten years later, we celebrate a life well lived and a legacy that continues to inspire. Bobbie's love, wisdom, strength, faith, and generosity live on through her son, Brian C. Sharp; her daughter, Brianna J. Williams; and the many family members, friends, former students, colleagues, and loved ones whose lives she touched.
A decade may have passed, but your light continues to shine in all who loved you.
Forever loved, forever remembered, and forever missed.