Sharon Ilene Sarno

Sharon Ilene Sarno, lovingly known by her family as “Mama”, age 76 passed away peacefully on September 16, 2025, at her home in Henderson, Nevada, surrounded by the love of her family near and far. She was born on December 16, 1948, in Salinas, California, to Doris Ilene Taylor (Holloway) and John Walter Gray. From the very beginning, Sharon had a protective and nurturing spirit, especially toward her younger brother, John Leslie Gray, and younger sister Lisa Hargitt-Cain whom she cared for deeply throughout their lives.

Sharon dedicated many years of her career to public service, working as a supervisor for the State of California. She oversaw programs that supported low-income families, ensuring that those most in need had access to vital resources. Her commitment to helping others reflected her selfless nature and the compassion that defined her life.

On November 7, 1969, Sharon married the love of her life, John Vincent Sarno, in Reno, NV. Together they built a beautiful life, raising their children primarily in the greater Sacramento area. They later settled in Folsom, California, where Sharon created a warm and welcoming home. After retiring, Sharon and John moved to Las Vegas before making their final home in Henderson, Nevada, in 2013, where they enjoyed their later years together.

Sharon was a woman of unwavering faith and worship. Her smile could light up a room and her presence brought comfort and joy to all who knew her. She treasured her friendships, especially the time she spent with her beloved women’s group, and she was devoted to her role as mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Family was her greatest joy, and she poured her heart into each of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her husband, John Vincent “Papa” Sarno; her father, John W. “Poppie” Gray; her mother, Doris Ilene Holloway; and her son-in-law, Stephen LaFranco. She is survived by her children Melissa LaFranco of Las Vegas, NV, Monica Hernandez (Scott Andreas) of North Las Vegas, NV, and John E. (Leslee) Sarno of Sacramento, CA; her grandchildren Vincent (Reagan) Hernandez of Rocklin, CA, Samantha E. (Samantha N.) LaFranco of Las Vegas, NV, Jessica LaFranco of Las Vegas, NV, Antonio (Kyla) Sarno of Dallas, TX, and Travis Sarno of Sacramento, CA; and her great-grandchildren Hayden, Beau, Finnley, Oakley, Luca, Lyric, Braxton, Palmer, Ryver, Remy, and Emersyn.

Sharon will be laid to rest alongside her beloved husband at the Southern Nevada Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Boulder City, Nevada. A celebration of life will be held at a later date to honor her memory.

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