F. Sharon (Gillespie) Parlin

SCARBOROUGH – F. Sharon (Gillespie) Parlin, of Scarborough, went home to be with the Lord on Thursday, July 23, 2026, after a long illness.

Born Aug. 4, 1939, in Pittsburg, Pa., Sharon was a daughter of the late Theresa (Battles-Gillespie) Andrews and Gomer Gillespie.

Mom’s stories throughout the years mirrored a transformation of the modern world. She was first generation of County Cork, Ireland on her paternal side, and second on her maternal side. Born at the brink of the Second World War, Sharon’s life spanned a remarkable epoch of human history. From the advent of early aviation to the era of global connectivity, she adapted to an ever-changing world with remarkable grace.

Amidst the shifting tides of history, Sharon loved her family, dogs, and community. She always shared her memories with her loved ones. When any of her children asked her, “Who do you love more?” Mom would always respond by saying, “I love you all the same because you all were born next to my heart.” She taught us to love deeply, be happy, and be true. Her legacy is not measured by the decades she lived, but by the profound love she left behind.

Sharon loved to dance and sing as a young woman. She grew up in Portland and always talked about dancing with her best friend, Beverly Manalus – especially the Jitterbug and Twist. She was admired for her dancing and taught many of her friends all the latest dance crazes.

Another of Sharon’s great pleasures in life was working at Mahoney Middle School as a cafeteria staff member. She enjoyed preparing meals for the students and most of all, seeing a smile on their face.

In addition to her parents, Sharon was predeceased by her husband of 49 years, Herman Parlin; her younger brother, Brian Andrews; and her oldest son, Brian LaBonte.

Sharon is survived by her four children, Terry Budzko (Ric), Robin Hill (Troy), Patty Wren (Diane), and David LaBonte (Laurel); seven grandchildren; six great-grandchildren plus twins arriving soon. Also, she leaves behind her beloved dogs “Penny” and “Annie.”

We want to give thanks to all her care providers, especially Amanda and Charlotte. We could not have done this without you and the family loves you for all the love you gave our mom and to us. Also, to all the lovely nurses, pastors, social workers, and management of Affinity Home Hospice and Dr. Powers, Dr. Green, and Dr. Poulin. It takes a village to care for your loved ones; thank you for being part of our village.

Services will be held on July 30, at Hobbs Funeral Home, 230 Cottage Rd., South Portland. Visitation will be from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m., followed by funeral services at 11 a.m. officiated by Pastor Tim Lajoie. A reception will be held at the Hobbs Hospitality Center following the service. Burial will take place at 2 p.m. at the Highland Memorial Cemetery, 881 Highland Ave., South Portland – all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that contributions be made to

Affinity Hospice Care

1 Runway Road, Ste 5

South Portland, ME 04106

or your local school cafeteria back-pack program.