Sharon Delphene Dula, a beloved and devoted family member, educator, activist, and cherished friend, passed away on May 24, 2026, at the age of 70. She peacefully returned to our Lord and Savior at Duke Hospice Hock Pavillion in Durham, NC. Born on September 27, 1955, she lived a life defined by dedication, compassion, and an unwavering spirit that led her to walk her own path with confidence and conviction.

A proud graduate of Lenoir High School, Class of 1973, Sharon continued her education at North Carolina Central University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Education in 1977. She later obtained a Master’s degree in Education from NCCU, further preparing her for a lifelong career in education. Sharon remained a devoted supporter of her alma mater, proudly cheering on the NCCU Eagles and passionately supporting the university’s renowned Marching Eagles band. During her time at NCCU, she was actively involved in student life, forming lasting bonds and memorable experiences.

Sharon dedicated 33 years to shaping young minds in Caldwell County Schools, where she taught at Hibriten High School, Gamewell Middle School, and William Lenoir Middle School. She was more than an educator—she was a mentor, devoted encourager, and inspiration to countless students and colleagues. Her unwavering dedication inspired her to push students to discover their true potential through her bold and spirited teaching approach. She was known for her strength and determination, balancing firmness with a heartfelt care for every student she encountered.

She will be remembered for her unwavering devotion to her family as a loving granddaughter, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend. Strong-willed and steadfast, Sharon showed her love through her actions—faithfully caring for and supporting her parents and grandparents throughout their lives. She was a devoted member of Dulatown Presbyterian Church, where she was actively involved. Sharon was also widely known for her passion for education beyond the classroom, leading and championing programs such as Black History Bowls and other academic and cultural events that enriched the lives of countless students and the community. Her determined spirit, and acts of love and service left a lasting impact on all who knew her. To know her was to love her—she was bold, spirited, and passionate, with a lively intensity that made her both formidable and deeply caring. She knew what she wanted and how she was going to do it. She knew exactly what she wanted and pursued it with determination and purpose through her journey. Even through a challenging health journey, she carried herself with the same passion and spirited determination that she always had.

She was preceded in death by her loving parents father, William C. “Stacy” Dula; and her mother, Norma King Dula. Her maternal grandmother, Nettie Forney; her paternal grandparents, Clarence L. Dula and Helen H. Dula.

Sharon leaves to cherish her memory her devoted and loving sister, Lorna N. Dula (William) Durham, NC; her loving and devoted nephew and niece, Christopher R. Dula (April) of Durham, NC; Leah Dula Brown (Roshawn) of Holly Springs, NC; bonus niece Callie Rodriguez of Durham, NC, her great nephew, Elijah Brown; and her great nieces, Avery Dula, Ella Brown, and Elyn Dula, and her loving Great Aunt, Anne Forney Ramseur Valdese, NC, along with a special cousin and lifelong dear friend, Victoria “Vick” Jones; and many dearly loved and cherished cousins, friends, classmates, students, and others who will forever honor her legacy.

Sharon Delphene Dula’s life was a testament to the power of education, the strength of family, and the joy of community. Her legacy will continue to live on in the countless lives she touched.

A homegoing celebration honoring the life of Ms. Sharon Delphene Dula will take place Saturday May 30, 2026 at 1:00 p.m. at Dulatown Presbyterian Church with Pastor Amos officiating and Pastor Rocky Dula serving as eulogist; the family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

The service will be livestreamed on the McCain Funeral Home Facebook Page & YouTube Channel. The links are found below:

https://www.facebook.com/mccainfuneralhome

https://www.youtube.com/@mccainfuneralhomecremation3478