Ruth Sharon Roam

Sharon was born in Yakima, Washington to Charles Haskell and Ruth Angela Yadon. She enjoyed a fun and lively childhood with her beloved siblings, Jewel, Haskell “Hack”, Ruby, Elwin “Bud”, and Samuel “Sam.” Sharon loved serving with her family in ministry. Even as a young child, Sharon prayed nightly for the American soldiers whose families attended the church where her father was a pastor. Her practice of intercessory prayer continued throughout her life. She was known by many as a “prayer warrior” and an “encourager.”

As a young woman, Sharon met a handsome and charming young man named Jim Roam. One snowy St. Louis evening, she found herself wishing the phone would ring, and that Jim would be on the other line. Her thoughts were suddenly interrupted with the ringing of the phone. And guess who was on the other line!

With the encouragement of both of their mothers, a match was made, and Jim and Sharon became inseparable. Their marriage was a model of rich love, deep respect and a ton of fun. Everyone who knew them admired their powerful commitment to each other as friends, lovers, and ministry partners.

Over the years, Jim and Sharon led many successful churches in Oregon, Texas, Ohio, and Missouri. They capped off their ministry partnership at Christ Life Church in Tempe, Arizona. Churches always flourished under their leadership, and they left a legacy of love wherever they went. In addition to pastoring, Jim and Sharon travelled the world, ministering to people of every nation, race, and creed with the Love of Jesus Christ.

Sharon loved learning. After graduating from Bible College, she continued to pursue her education at the University of Missouri, St. Louis, and Arizona State University. After the death of her beloved Jim, Sharon began working for Wright Family Medicine and remained a steadfast and trusted employee, always bringing sunshine and cheer to the office.

Sharon had a special gift of sharing God's Love through encouraging words, inspiration, and generosity to everyone who crossed her path. It was commonplace to find Sharon ministering to a cashier, waitress, sales clerk, real estate agent, nurse, doctor, or just about anyone with whom she interacted. Her generosity of spirit prompted total strangers to share their struggles with her. She was always ready to offer a hug, a word, a prayer, and even a dab of anointing oil (which she kept in her purse) to anyone in need. She lived her life abundantly with grace and beauty, and she will be deeply missed by everyone who came across her path.

Sharon is survived by her beloved children: Sharenda (Jeff) Beal, Brent (Rebecca) Roam, and Christie (Drew) Wright. She is also survived by her beloved grandchildren who will eternally love, adore, and honor her as their queen: Whitnie, Shadon, Logan, Jameson, Lincoln, Augustine, Eden and Isabeau.