Sharon Howson-Jan

It is with sadness and love that we announce the passing of Sharon Howson-Jan. Sharon leaves behind her husband of 41 years, Kang, her children Stephen (Roselyn Wilson), Bethany (Eric Muller), David (Brittany Anne), and Christina (Evelyn Davis), and grandchildren Caspian, Wesley, and Wendy, to whom she was their beloved Shannah. She is also survived by mother-in-law, Siu, brother-in-law Chien (Helen) and their family, an uncle, and five cousins in Ontario and New Brunswick.

Born in Guwahati, Assam, India, Sharon was the only daughter of Herb (d. 2004) and Aileen (d. 2025), Canadian missionaries in Balasore, Odisha, India. The family eventually settled in Hamilton, where Sharon spent most of her childhood. Sharon attended McMaster University studying English and Social Work, earning a BA and BSW, and moved to London to work as a medical social worker. She met her husband, Kang, while they were both working at University Hospital. They were married in 1984 and lived in Montreal, QC and Minneapolis, MN before settling in London, ON in 1991. Along the way, Sharon earned her Master of Social Work degree from McGill University. After taking a twelve-year hiatus from the workforce to start a family, Sharon returned to clinical social work in 1999. She worked as a psychotherapist with Westbridge Associates until her retirement in 2023.

Sharon will be remembered for her grace, her humour, her wisdom, and her unmatched style. She moved through her life with a sense of vibrancy and playfulness. She enjoyed spending time with friends and family over a cup of tea, as well as music, theatre, books, movies, cycling, and hiking. She would spend hours on planning every family gathering, from celebrations to vacations, to create the many memories we hold dear. Sharon was also a member of North Park Community Church, where she served as an Elder for six years.

Sharon’s family is deeply grateful to her friends and community for the emotional and practical support they have offered during her illness. We thank the many doctors, nurses, and allied health staff who looked after Sharon in hospitals, clinics, and at home. You are true exemplars in your profession.

Visitation will be held on Monday, May 19th from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at Northview Funeral Chapel, 1490 Highbury Avenue North, London. A memorial service will take place at the Chapel on May 20th, at 11:00 a.m., followed by a lunch reception at North Park Community Church.

A livestream is available for those unable to attend the service in person by clicking on the link below:

Memorial Service for Sharon Howson-Jan

Although beautiful flowers are appreciated in springtime, we ask you to please consider a donation to one of several causes Sharon supported: Indwell, Sanctuary London or Canadian Friends of World Central Kitchen.