Born on April 4, 1948, in Louisville, Sharon grew up with a passion for design and creativity. She graduated from Dupont Manual High School before attending the University of Kentucky, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in Home Economics with a focus in Interior Design in 1970.
Not long after, Sharon was recognized for her contributions and character by receiving the prestigious Kentucky Colonel Award in 1976, the highest honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
After college, she remained in Lexington, where her professional journey took an unexpected turn. At 28, she married her boss, Bob Adams, and together they returned to Louisville to build a thriving business life. They owned and operated several local spots, including Hickory House Restaurant, Kernel Korn in Bashford Manor Mall, and a donut shop in Southwest Louisville.
After Bob’s passing just eight years into their marriage, Sharon faced an incredibly difficult chapter — but she didn’t step back. She sold the businesses, keeping only the donut shop, and continued forward. When a fire destroyed the store, Sharon rebuilt it from the ground up, transforming it into a lively 1950s-style diner, complete with a jukebox and charm.
It was there that she met her second husband, Buddy Mattingly. He began working alongside her, and together they eventually sold the diner and moved to Sevierville, Tennessee. Sharon continued her strong work ethic, taking a position at Cracker Barrel, where she worked until returning to Louisville later in life.
Since August 2023, Sharon has been part of the Hallmark House family.
