Shari Lee Anderson

Shari Lee Anderson was born on May 15, 1964, in sunny Santa Barbara, California, to Richard Lee Anderson and Edde Francine Anderson (née Mayfield). She enjoyed a brief reign as an only child before her brother Richie arrived and the sibling shenanigans began. The family eventually moved to Cheyenne, Wyoming, where Shari attended Cheyenne Seton High School and proudly graduated with the class of 1982.

In 1990, Shari’s life found new purpose with the birth of her daughter, Melissa, her pride, joy, and guiding star. Melissa was Shari’s “why” in this world, and the bond between them was unshakable.

Determined to make a difference, Shari returned to school and earned her associate’s degree in nursing from Laramie County Community College in 1997. She went on to serve as a dedicated operating room nurse at United Medical Center, where she cared for patients with warmth, humor, and a fierce sense of loyalty. She was adored by both her patients and coworkers alike.

In 2003, Shari’s career was cut short due to a brain tumor, and the roles reversed as Melissa became her caretaker. Together with her loving son-in-law Travis, Melissa helped Shari regain her independence and maintain it for many years. With courage, grit, and a bit of sass, Shari lived life on her own terms stubbornly and spectacularly.

In the final six months of her life, Shari made a powerful return to her faith, reconnecting with her Catholic roots at St. Mary’s Cathedral. This step toward reconciliation and peace was a source of great comfort to her family and a testament to her strength and grace.

Shari had a deep love for her animals and is surely now reunited with her beloved pups Sheba, Bubba, and Lola, who no doubt greeted her with joyful barks and wagging tails.

She is preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Edde, her brother Richie, her niece Heather Marie Anderson, and her nephew Richard Lee Anderson III. She is survived by her devoted daughter Melissa Helms and her favorite “bonus kid,” son-in-law Travis Helms though she'd never hesitate to tell people Travis was the one she liked best (and frankly, we all knew it).

Shari’s spirit was bold, her heart was generous, and her laugh was unforgettable. She will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love, laughter, and maybe just a little eye-roll at her most “Shari” of moments.

A memorial service is pending. Please visit at a later date to view full details.