Sharon Louise Toma, 79, of Eldon, IA passed away on Saturday, August 22, 2026, at the Good Samaritan Society in Ottumwa, IA. A private family burial will be held in the Eldon Cemetery in Eldon, IA. Memorial contributions in Sharon’s honor may be directed to Care Initiatives Hospice and can be mailed to 726 Blue Jay Ct., Tiffin, IA 52340. Friends may leave online condolences at www.cranstonfamilyfuneralhome.com.
Sharon Louise Toma was born on June 12, 1947, in Lewistown, MT to James and Julia Hull Ranney. She attended school and was Salutatorian of her 8th grade class. Sharon spent the first portion of her life in Avery, ID before moving to Three Forks, MT until 1980 and then finding her way to Eldon, IA which she called home for the remainder of her life. She married Neil Toma in July of 1963 and though they later divorced, the union made Sharon the mother to her daughter, Susan.
Sharon spent several years working for the Milwaukee Railroad Transportation Crews while she was living in Montana and when she moved to Eldon she began working for Target in Ottumwa, IA where she remained until her retirement.
In her younger years Sharon enjoyed knitting and bowling. She could often be found with a good book or playing cards with family or friends. Whenever possible, Sharon filled her time attending grandchildren’s events, especially softball. The family always loved her Sunday dinners that often included her famous beef and noodles. Sharon always created memories for her grandchildren, like showing up with the newest Disney movie on the day of its release. She cherished the time spent with her family and never missed an opportunity to make memories.
Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, James Ranney and Carl Hanson.
Left to share her story is her daughter, Susan (Tracey) Fligg of Tiffin, IA, her four grandchildren, Kalie Fligg of Tiffin, IA, Allysa (Garrett) Ellard of Tiffin, IA, Michaela (Scottie) Golembiewski of Loveland, CO, and Maliah (Cody) VanDee of Ely, IA; five great grandchildren, Payson, Connor, Fynnlee, Tucker, and Beau; four siblings, Robert Ranney, David Carr, Arlene Lindsley, and Susan Locke, as well as many extended family and friends.
