Sharon Cottrill

Sharon Cottrill, known to many as Sister Gilchrist, passed away peacefully on August 2, 2025, at the age of 78.

She is survived by (3) Brothers: John R. Cottrill, Kevin O. Cottrill and Scott M. Cottrill and predeceased by brother David A. Cottrill  

Feisty, loving, and intelligent, she devoted her life to service: teaching, advocating, and caring deeply for children with exceptional needs. Her legacy is one of fierce dedication, endless compassion, and unwavering faith.

Sharon began her academic journey in Political Science at Ohio State University before transferring to Notre Dame College in Ohio, where she earned a B.A. in English, Exceptional Education, and Behavior Disorders. She later obtained two master's degrees, one in Exceptional Education from Cardinal Stritch University in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and another in Religious Education from St. Thomas Aquinas University in Rome.

She spent decades as a passionate educator: teaching four years at Central City in Cleveland, 12 years at Julie Billiart School in Lyndhurst, Ohio, and eventually founding three exceptional education schools in Southwest Florida. Sharon also served as the Executive Director of the Epiphany Excel Center for Autism and Learning Needs, where she developed groundbreaking programs and shared her expertise across the country and abroad, including in Japan, Spain, Mexico, and Puerto Rico. Her contributions have touched more than 900 schools across the U.S., all rooted in her belief that every child deserves dignity, respect, and opportunity.

Despite a career full of serious work, Sharon was known for her quick wit, competitive streak, and great stories. Just two months before her passing, while in the hospital, she challenged her dear friend Father Bernie to an arm wrestling match – an episode he would never forget. Do not underestimate Sister Gilchrist, for she was small in size but strong in spirit.

Sharon loved God, her family, her students, and animals, including her many cats and dogs. She often reminded others: “My job is to be interrupted,” and, “We help people who are marginalized – with dignity.” Those who knew her understood that her life was never about recognition but about walking with those who needed her most.

She will be deeply missed by the children she taught, her loving family, and her coworkers who shared her mission.

A memorial service and mass will be held to honor Sharon’s life and legacy on Saturday, August 16th at 11:00am at Holy Cross Church (505 26th St W, Palmetto FL, 34221).

The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers, warm notes, and the memories shared in her honor. Donations in her memory may be made to Holy Cross Church.

May she rest in peace, and may her life of radical love and advocacy continue to inspire all who knew her.