Sharon Francis Venable

Sharon Francis Venable passed away on August 4, 2022. She was born October 4, 1942, in Dallas, Texas, to Billie and James Harwell, descendants of East Texas sharecroppers. Raised with modest means, Sharon inherited from her parents a strong work ethic, integrity, determination, and a drive to succeed. She had a vibrant personality, an adventurous spirit, and a caring heart, traits that fostered many enduring lifelong relationships. She was always on the go as a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, sister, philanthropist, communicator, mentor, diplomat, and community builder. Sharon graduated from Wilmer-Hutchins High School, where she was a majorette, class Salutatorian, and voted “Most Popular.” She and her husband, Jimmy, were high school sweethearts, going steady since the 10th grade, and through 61 years of marriage – “there never was anyone else.” Their first date was following the school play they performed together. They were wholly and immediately smitten; they married one year after graduation high school and built a lifetime of memories together. They moved to Hawaii with their newborn son while Jimmy served in the United States Marine Corps. Sharon quickly landed a job at the military base PX, providing supplemental income for the family of three living on $150.00 per month. After returning to Texas, Sharon worked for AT&T, which later became Southwestern Bell Telephone, for nearly 30 years in various roles, including Unit Manager. Her best friend and sister-in-law, Sharon Venable, joined Sharon at the telephone company, and they worked together for many years. Sharon was given notable duties in community outreach and masterfully orchestrated the Georgia O’Keeffe exhibit as part of the Southwestern Bell Art Centennial. She also pioneered women’s programs and developed education initiatives that became a mainstay of the award-winning company culture. Sharon retired from the telephone company early and walked across the street to her new job at the Greater Dallas Chamber of Commerce. She quickly proved her diplomacy skills and was appointed Chief Creative Officer and then advanced to Vice President, International Trade. As a City of Dallas ambassador, she traveled with business executives to Europe, Asia, South America, New Zealand, and Australia. During her 15 years with the GDCC, Sharon became a member of Leadership Dallas and was selected as a Top 5 Executives in Dallas. She celebrated her success by mentoring, advising, and counseling others, shepherding future business leaders and philanthropists, many of whom stayed connected for decades. While working full-time and raising two children, Sharon earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Dallas Baptist University and a Master of Liberal Arts degree from Southern Methodist University. Sharon next ventured into academia. She had been a member of the Texas Women’s University Board of Regents and joined the university staff as a Community Relations and Development Executive. Following her team with TWU, Sharon became the CEO of the Dallas Committee on Foreign Relations (DCFR) until her final retirement. Sharon’s skills extended beyond business and education to benefit charitable and civic initiatives. She was the Volunteer Coordinator for the 1994 Dallas World Cup, overseeing more than 2,000 volunteers enlisted to help spread “warm Texas hospitality.” She also served on the Board of Directors of the Northwood Hills Homeowner’s Association (NHHA). She acted as an Advisor to the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum and served on the Community Advisory Board for KERA, Among all her accomplishments, Sharon’s proudest achievement was the family she adored. She was a master in balancing work and family, attending all her children’s activities, and creating cherished memories. Her most fulfilling and prominent role was as Nana to her precious grandchildren, Leah and Killian. She treasured every moment with them, doing fun and simple activities from decorating the Christmas tree to taking loved local trips. She just loved to be with them, always imparting words of encouragement and celebrating their unique talents. Sharon was preceded in death by her parents and dear sister, Charlotte. She is survived by her beloved husband, Charles C. “Jimmy” Venable of Dallas; son, James Lynn Venable (Kris) of Dallas; daughter, Erin (Shannon) Green of Dallas; grandchildren, Leah Venable and Killian Green; and nieces and nephews. A celebration of Sharon’s life will be at 11:00am on Tuesday, October 4, 2022 at Byrum Funeral Home Chapel. As an expression of sympathy, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation. Messages of condolence may be sent to charlievenable@aol.com

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Sharon Francis Venable

October 4, 1942 - August 4, 2022