Walla Walla Mourns the Loss of Sharon Thompson, Longtime Violinist and Pillar of the Symphony Community

Walla Walla Mourns the Loss of Sharon Thompson, Longtime Violinist and Pillar of the Symphony Community

WALLA WALLA, WA — The Walla Walla community is grieving the loss of Sharon Thompson, a beloved violinist, arts advocate, and devoted matriarch, who passed away peacefully at home this morning, surrounded by the love of her daughter and grandchildren. She was a cornerstone of Walla Walla’s cultural and musical life, and her passing marks the end of an era.

Sharon’s journey in music began in 1957, when she joined the Walla Walla Symphony as a young and passionate violinist. Over the decades, she became not only a fixture on stage but a driving force behind the scenes — a woman whose unwavering commitment helped shape the Symphony into the vibrant institution it is today.

A Life in Harmony

Sharon’s love for music was evident in everything she did. With a violin in hand and purpose in her heart, she contributed to the Symphony’s artistry with a deep understanding of music’s power to connect, heal, and inspire. Her performances were marked not only by technical excellence, but by emotion — her notes often speaking louder than words ever could.

But Sharon’s contributions extended well beyond performance. She became a quiet yet powerful leader within the Symphony’s administration, guiding growth initiatives, supporting young musicians, and helping orchestrate community outreach programs that brought music to schools, underserved neighborhoods, and rural areas.

“Sharon was more than a musician — she was the heartbeat of this organization,” said Leah Wilson, Executive Director of the Walla Walla Symphony. “Her influence on the Symphony’s development, her kindness, and her unwavering belief in the importance of community music-making will be felt for generations.”

A Legacy of Service and Love

Though her professional achievements are many, Sharon is remembered just as fondly for her warm spirit, humility, and fierce devotion to her family and friends. A woman of quiet strength, she balanced her roles as a musician, mentor, advocate, and mother with extraordinary grace.

Her daughter, Emily Thompson, described Sharon as “a woman who lived with intention and love — never seeking praise, always seeking to lift others.”

Sharon’s home was a haven for family dinners, impromptu recitals, and thoughtful conversations over tea. Her grandchildren recall falling asleep to the soft sound of her practicing in the next room — a lullaby that now echoes in their hearts.

Honoring a Life Well Lived

To honor her profound legacy, the Thompson family is encouraging memorial contributions to the Walla Walla Symphony, an organization that defined so much of Sharon’s life and to which she gave so much in return. Donations will support educational programming and musician development — causes close to Sharon’s heart.

A public memorial service will be held at a later date at the Symphony Hall, where friends, family, and the community will gather to celebrate her life, her music, and her immeasurable impact.

An Enduring Presence

While the violin she once held is now silent, the music of Sharon Thompson’s life plays on — in the countless lives she touched, the community she helped build, and the symphonic legacy she leaves behind.

Walla Walla will miss her presence in the concert hall, her gentle wisdom, and the unwavering light she brought to the city’s cultural soul.

Rest in peace, Sharon Thompson.
Your life was a symphony of kindness, dedication, and grace. May your music echo forever. 🎻🕊️