On December 13th, Sharon Triplett passed away peacefully at the age of 83. She was preceded by her father Francis Girton, her mother Helen Girton and her younger sisters Sally Schwartz and Catherine Girton. She is survived by her son Francis “Chip” Triplett(wife Michelle), her grandchildren Craig Triplett (wife Kayle) and Ilyanna Triplett, her two beautiful great grandchildren Nevaeh and Anthony Triplett as well as her beloved dog Max.

Sharon was born on October 22nd 1942 in Newport News where she lived in historic Hilton Village. She spent many days listening to music and playing down at the Hilton pier. She graduated with honors from Warwick high school before receiving a full scholarship from James Madison University. After earning a Bachelor’s degree from JMU, she began her teaching career as an elementary school teacher before moving to Hampton city schools where she continued to teach Social Studies at the middle school level for the next 35 years. During that time she earned a Master’s degree from Columbia University, received Teacher of the Year 3 separate times and was recognized by President George H.W. Bush for starting a care package program to help our military during Operation Desert Storm. Her students have gone on to become Olympians, professional athletes, politicians and local business owners.

Sharon was a single mother, sometimes working up to 3 jobs to provide for her family. She was tenacious, hardworking, generous and caring. her favorite things in life. were her family, the Carolina Tarheels, the Baltimore Orioles and enjoying the many dogs she had rescued over the years. Sharon touched many lives and made an impact on everyone who had the fortune of knowing her.

Sharon will be honored at a small gathering at the Hilton Pier with immediate family at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family is asking for donations to the Newport News SPCA in her name.