Sharon Maretha Bivins

Sharon Maretha Patterson Johnson Bivins, aged 81, passed away peacefully on October 23, 2026, in Lubbock, Texas, following a brave battle with pancreatic cancer diagnosed in June 2026. A four-time cancer survivor throughout her lifetime, Sharon was a testament to strength, perseverance, and faith.

Sharon was born on December 19, 1944, in Knox City, Texas, to Rex Ashby and Maretha Patterson. Born and raised in Knox County, she graduated from Benjamin High School before pursuing higher education at Sul Ross State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science and a Master’s degree in Education. A dedicated educator, Sharon shared her love of learning over a remarkable 43-year teaching career. Her passion for helping students led her to retire twice—once in Texas and once in New Mexico. Over the course of her life, she lived in San Antonio, El Paso, Alpine, and Benjamin, Texas, before settling in Tatum, New Mexico, following her marriage to Karson Bivins on November 20, 2001. Above all, Sharon had a servant’s heart and remained a devoted caregiver to the very end. Over the years, she selflessly cared for her mother, Maretha, prior to her passing, as well as her father-in-law, Leon, and her husband, Karson. Beyond her family and teaching career, Sharon was deeply involved in her community and faith. During her years in Alpine, Texas, she was a faithful volunteer at the First Methodist Church. In her personal time, Sharon found joy in the quiet arts, enjoying reading, sewing, and crocheting.

She is survived by her loving husband, Karson Bivins of Tatum, NM; two daughters, Suzanne Overton and her husband Brian, and Stephanie Statler and her husband Patrick; five grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.

Sharon was preceded in death by her parents, Rex Ashby and Maretha Patterson, and her brother and sister-in-law, Weldon and Marjorie Patterson.

A private memorial service will be held by the family to honor her life and legacy. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that memorial donations be sent to the Benjamin Baptist Church or the Benjamin Cemetery Association. Cremation services are under the direction of House of Angels Funeral Home, Lubbock, Texas.