April 23, 1953 – August 1, 2025

Sharon Yolanda Lake, 72, of Tobyhanna, Pennsylvania, passed away peacefully on Friday, August 1, 2025, at St. Luke’s Hospital in Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania.

Born on April 23, 1953, in Perth Amboy, New Jersey, Sharon was the daughter of the late Alvin and Doris Lake. She spent her early years in Westfield and Plainfield, where she built a strong foundation of family values and resilience. After graduating from the Job Corps program in New Mexico—an achievement that allowed her to complete her high school education—Sharon returned to Plainfield, where she began her family. She later resided in Linden for over 20 years, had a brief stay in Elizabeth, and, six years ago, achieved one of her proudest accomplishments—purchasing her first home in Tobyhanna, in the beautiful Pocono Mountains. Owning her own home was a dream realized, and she embraced the freedom it brought with joy and pride.

Sharon also attended Rutgers University in New Brunswick and went on to dedicate more than 30 years of her professional life as a nurse at the Lyons VA Hospital in Lyons, New Jersey. She was deeply committed not only to her patients but also to her colleagues through her active involvement in Union Local 1012 at Lyons VA. Beginning as a Women’s Coordinator, she was later elected Vice President, and ultimately served as Union President—holding the longest tenure in the position. After retiring from nursing in 2006 for health reasons, Sharon transitioned to working full-time for the union, a role she treasured and poured her heart into.

Outside of her professional life, Sharon enjoyed the simple pleasures that brought her happiness. She loved trips to Atlantic City and the local casino in the Poconos, playing bingo, and hunting for treasures at thrift stores. She had a sharp eye for a good bargain and took pride in finding great deals. Her love of music, especially Marvin Gaye and other artists from her era, was a constant joy in her life. In her Tobyhanna home, she delighted in playing her music at any volume she wished, surrounded by the comfort of her beloved pets. She cherished her morning ritual of coffee at home, appreciating the peace and contentment it brought.

Family was at the center of Sharon’s heart. She is survived by her two children, Gemini Lake and Shamean Lake; her grandchildren, Khyrin, Tamia, and Taj Green; Yasmin, Iyanna Lake; Epiphany Jackson; and Idris Lake; and one great-grandchild. She is also survived by her loving siblings, James Lake, John Lake, Doris Houser, and Linda Johnson. Sharon was predeceased by her brother, Alvin Lake, and her parents, Alvin and Doris Lake.

Funeral services will be held on Saturday, August 16, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. at Higgins Home for Funerals, 752 Mountain Blvd., Watchung, New Jersey. 

Sharon will be remembered for her strong work ethic, unwavering dedication to others, love for her family, and the joy she found in life’s simple pleasures. She leaves behind a legacy of perseverance, love, and pride in her accomplishments.