Sharon L. Zimmerman

Sharon Luzella McKinney Zimmerman, 87, of Lafayette died on August 23, 2026, at her home.  She was born on February 17, 1939, in Lafayette, Indiana to the late Robert L. and Martha E. (Merkel) McKinney.

Sharon married David L. Zimmerman on September 1, 1956, at St. James Lutheran Church. David preceded her in death on October 26, 2015.  She graduated in 1957 from Southwestern High School.

Sharon worked as a school administrative assistant between 1957 and 1972 at Southwestern High School, Wea Grade School, East Tipp Junior High, and Harrison High School.

Sharon graduated from Purdue University Vocational Instructor’s Program in 1975, after which she developed, and was the instructor for, the General Office Training program through Tippecanoe School Corporation. The program expanded in 1979 and she became a team-teacher with Janet Fox Frey until its conclusion in 1994.

From 1983 to 1990 she was also treasurer and accounts payable for L&Z Supply that was co-owned by husband David Zimmerman.  She started her own business, Professional Office Skills, in 1995.  It was a labor of love for the next 15 years as she helped many individuals acquire new skills and new career opportunities.

Through the years she also volunteered as a 4H leader for 8 years with the Wea Blue Ribbon Club, and 3 years with Buck Creek Merry Maidens.  She also volunteered as a Pink Lady for 3 years with the Home Hospital Auxiliary serving as the Gift Shop Treasurer, and tending the Gift Cart.  She was proud to have visited all 50 states with husband David, as well as several foreign countries.

She is survived by four children, Beth Buffington (husband John, d. 2016), Greg Zimmerman (wife Karen), Gery Zimmerman (wife Desiree), Bobb Zimmerman, seven grandchildren, and twelve great grandchildren.  She also has a surviving brother Joseph McKinney.

Sharon is preceded in death by sisters Nancy Karner, Sandra Freed, and brother Harold McKinney.

She had an unwavering faith in God, and trusted that his “Perfect Plan” was what she should believe in and follow. She felt she was blessed beyond measure!

Visitation will be from 10:00 am until the time of the service at 11:00 am on Monday, August 31, 2026, at Soller-Baker Lafayette Chapel, 400 Twyckenham Blvd., Pastor Seth Amerine officiating. Private inurnment will be at Rest Haven Memorial Park.  In lieu of flowers, donations to Purdue Cancer Research, or the donor’s choice are appreciated.