Sharon Abbott

Mar 22, 1936 -

Jun 26, 2026

Sharon Kilby Abbott passed away peacefully on June 26, 2026, in Anchorage, Alaska, at the age of 90.

Sharon was born in Corona, Calif., and lived much of her childhood abroad, including time in Japan, Switzerland and Germany. In her early 20s, while working as a stewardess for TWA, Sharon fell in love with Wilfred Keese Abbott, an Air Force pilot. Sharon and Will married in 1959 and began a 62-year adventure, only interrupted by Will's death in 2021.

During the Vietnam War, Will spent over six years as a POW after being shot down over North Vietnam. During this time, Sharon was an exemplary mom to their two sons, Mike and Steve, while also pursuing a master's degree in American history. Upon Will's return from Vietnam, the family moved many times due to Will's Air Force postings. Ultimately, Will and Sharon put down roots in Anchorage. Sharon enjoyed her work as the Curator of Education at the Anchorage Museum, while Will served his final active-duty assignment as Wing Commander of the 21st Fighter Wing. In their retirement years, Will and Sharon spent over a decade in Coronado, Calif., enjoying the beautiful climate and new friendships. After Will's death, Sharon returned to Anchorage, appreciating its familiarity and the opportunity to be close to loving family.

Sharon and Will were avid travelers. Their six granddaughters were included in many trips, including travels to Kenya, Italy and Paris. Sharon's granddaughters remember her for her adventurous spirit, curiosity and as a stickler for etiquette. She played a mean game of "hearts" and loved to see the world through their eyes.

Sharon was predeceased by her beloved husband, Wilfred Keese Abbott. She is survived by her sons, Michael (Melissa) of Anchorage and Stephen (Shawn) of Mt. Shasta, Calif.; and six granddaughters, Rosalie (Stef), Molly (John), Grace (Robert), Rachel (Kara), Eileen and Tess (Sean). In addition, Sharon was a sweet "GiGi," great-grandmother, to Jack, Hugh, Danny, Petra, Birk, Henry and Sebastian.

Sharon will be buried alongside Will at the Miramar National Cemetery in San Diego, Calif. Her immediate family will celebrate her in summer 2026 when gathered together in Anchorage.