Sharon Kay McNitt, Age: 80
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Nov 17, 1943---Jul 15, 2024

Sharon Kay McNitt, 80, of Lenexa, KS, passed away on Monday, July 15, 2024 in Lenexa, KS. She was born on November 17, 1943 to Cornelius (Neily) and Anna Laura (Klick) McNitt, of rural Toronto, KS. Sharon graduated from Yates Center High School in 1961, then pursued a bachelor’s degree at Kansas State Teachers College in Emporia, KS, graduating in 1965. In 1971, she earned her master’s degree from the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley, CO.

After a year teaching in Fredonia, KS, Sharon spent the remainder of her career teaching physical education at Lansing High School in Lansing, KS. In 2023, she was honored by the school as a pioneer coach for her part in starting its girls’ sports program. During her tenure, she coached hundreds of young women in basketball, volleyball, track & field, and tennis. The lasting impact she had on her students’ lives was undoubtedly her greatest achievement. Following retirement in 2004, Sharon continued substitute teaching for several years.

Throughout her life, Sharon loved the great outdoors and enjoyed activities like skiing, camping, and boating whenever possible. She also enjoyed visiting the family farm tending to chores wherever needed, even into retirement. These activities were always fueled by strong coffee and often with animals following along. She was a beloved friend, cherished sister, and devoted aunt, especially when she could share her love of nature with her nieces and nephews.

Sharon is survived by her long-time friend Jan Detlefson of Olathe; two brothers, Gary McNitt of Lake City, CO, and Gordon McNitt and wife Marcia of Yates Center, KS; three nieces, three nephews, and a growing number of great nieces and nephews; plus many dear friends and former students. She was preceded in death by her parents; a sister, Marilyn Weide, and her husband Willard; and two sisters-in-law, Mary Alice McNitt and Kay McNitt.

In keeping with her wishes, no memorial service will be held but those wishing to honor Sharon may do so through gifts to the Lansing Educational Foundation at https://lansing-educational-foundation.square.site or by mail to 200 E. Mary St., Lansing, KS 66043. Following cremation, a private burial will be held near the family farm.



Condolences

Janice Detlefson Jul 19, 2024

Best Friend ,Olathe ,Kansas

Sharon and I have known each other since our college days. I was in the class ahead of her but we were in clubs and activities together. We vacationed and traveled all over the U.S.and Canada ,having several different trailers over the years. We skied in the winter after Christmas and at spring break. We were often joined by other friends on our adventures and even traveled to Alaska twice. She taught high school when I taught in the middle school. Most of our friends were other teachers too. I will miss Sharon, she was a kindhearted person and gave 100% to whatever endeavor she chose to do. My condolences to her family and friends who will miss her as much as I do.

Vonna Jul 22, 2024

My Coach at Lansing High ,Mckinney ,Texas

So sorry to hear, she was an awesome coach! I had her for a track, volleyball and basketball coach. I ran a lot of wind sprints VERY early in the morning for training for basketball and in the afternoons for track. I can remember her teaching us shoulder rolls in volleyball. Great memories! Thank you Coach McNitt for all your hard work with the girls throughout all those years.

Rebecca Fox MD Jul 22, 2024

Former student and failed hurdler! ,Midlothian ,Virginia

I remember you, Coach McNitt. You were tough! But you were always right and ultimately always fair. Hope you have your whistle with you just in case anyone isn’t falling in line! And you will absolutely tell them “the what for”! You will be missed.

Carol Haussermann Jul 23, 2024

friend ,Blair, NE 68008 ,Nebraska

It took some time to get this message to Sharon's family, but please know you have been in my thoughts since her death. I am so sorry and I know how much she will be missed by all. All my sympathy during this time of mourning.

Pam Avesian Jul 29, 2024

Former student and athlete ,Estero ,Florida

There are certain teachers, coaches, and leaders in one’s life that leave indelible marks and that are forever remembered, respected, and cherished. Coach McNitt is one of those. From those darn Gardner drills at oh so early in the morning, to all kinds of shenanigans and fun in PE, to her ice cream truck during the summer, and that whistle that I’m convinced she slept with at night, she inspired me to be my best in all that I did. Tough? Yes. Fair? Always. She shaped many lives of the young women she passionately shepherd during those impressionable high school years. Her loss will be great but her legacy will live on forever. God bless.