October 8, 2025, 52, Goldsboro —
Sharon Denise Summerlin Hardison, 52, passed away suddenly on Wednesday, October 8, 2025, at her home. Born in Wayne County on July 10, 1973, she was the beloved daughter of Laverne Sutton Summerlin Barwick and the late George Marshall Summerlin.
A woman of quiet strength and unwavering compassion, Sharon lived her life with purpose and heart. She graduated with honors from East Carolina University, earning a degree in Speech Therapy—a reflection of her deep desire to help others find their voice. Her career began with Martin County Social Services and later continued with the Children’s Developmental Services Agency (CDSA), where she devoted herself to helping children with developmental delays reach their fullest potential. Her kindness, patience, and gentle spirit left a lasting impact on every life she touched.
Sharon’s journey was not without challenges. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes at the age of eight, she faced numerous health battles throughout her life with remarkable courage and faith. Despite her struggles, Sharon’s love for others never dimmed. In her final act of generosity, she chose to donate her body to the Duke University School of Medicine, continuing her lifelong commitment to helping others through education and research.
A celebration of Sharon’s life will be held at a later date at First United Methodist Church in Williamston, where family and friends will gather to honor her beautiful spirit.
Sharon is survived by her loving husband, Thomas Jackson “Tommy” Hardison; her cherished daughter, Lauren Brooke Hardison; her mother, Laverne Barwick and stepfather, whom she called dad, Willard Franklin Barwick; her brother, Steven Matthew Summerlin; and her step-sister, Tracy Lynn Delgado.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Sharon’s memory to the American Diabetes Association or to the Anatomical Gift Program at Duke University.
The family would like to express heartfelt gratitude to Seymour Funeral Home for their assistance in facilitating Sharon’s gift to the Duke University School of Medicine and to Biggs Funeral Home in Williamston for their help in ensuring her safe transport to Duke.
Sharon will be remembered for her grace, perseverance, and the deep love she shared with her family and all who were blessed to know her.
