Sharon "Honeybee" Joann Kirkness

Sharon “Honeybee” Joann Kirkness passed away peacefully, surrounded by her loving family, on Monday, January 5, at Canyon Creek Memory Care in Billings, Montana. She went home to be with her Lord and Savior for eternity. Honeybee was 85 years old.

Sharon was born on October 17, 1940, in Choteau, Montana, to Edward and Esther Morris. She was the first of three children and carried the role of big sister with a caring heart from the very beginning. She was raised in Helena and graduated from Helena High School in 1958.

A few years later, she married Derwin Brown. Although the marriage ended shortly after the birth of their third child in 1966, Honeybee courageously stepped into the role of a single mother with determination, strength, and grace.

As a single mom, Honeybee worked tirelessly to provide for her family. By day, she served as an administrative assistant for the State of Montana, and by night, she welcomed people with warmth and kindness as a hostess at the Night Owl Supper Club in Helena. She made sure her children always had what they needed. They never lacked food or a roof over their heads—and never realized they were poor—because they were so incredibly rich in her love, sacrifice, and presence.

In the early 1970s, Honeybee met the love of her life, Neal Kirkness, at the Night Owl. They were married in Helena and, in 1973, moved to Billings with her three children in tow. Together, they created a home filled with love, faith, and hard work. It was there that she finished raising Mark, Todd, and Shauna, instilling in them a strong work ethic, compassion for others, and a heart for service that continues to shape their lives today.

After Neal’s passing in 1991, Honeybee took over running the Chrome Bar, which she and Neal owned, and moved to Absarokee, Montana. She loved the close-knit community and touched countless lives there. She attended Grace Fellowship, where she faithfully served as a greeter—a role perfectly suited to her welcoming spirit and generous hospitality. When someone was new, lonely, hurting, or in need, Honeybee was there!

Honeybee dearly loved her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. As she aged and dementia began to take hold, she moved to Helena to be with family. Elaine Rummel and Ian Johnson helped care for her until her needs increased, and she returned to Billings and found her new home at Canyon Creek Memory Care.

At Canyon Creek, Honeybee continued to be exactly who she had always been. She could often be found wandering the halls, looking for others she could encourage or help, offering kind words, smiles, and comfort. She participated in Bible studies and worship, boldly proclaiming her love for the Lord Jesus. Even as her memory faded, her heart for people and her faith never did. She was a kind and caring woman, molded by the Lord and used by Him to touch many lives.

We are confident that when Honeybee entered eternity, she heard the words of her Savior: “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.”

She was the best mom anyone could have. She reflected the Lord’s character so beautifully that it is no wonder Neal lovingly nicknamed her “Honeybee.” Like a honeybee pollinating flowers, she quietly and faithfully touched many lives, spreading God’s love. Her mercy, generosity, and devotion to others stood out.

Honeybee often reminded her family of what mattered most, saying, “Family is everything.” And she lived that truth daily. She loved the Lord, and she loved her family deeply. Because she was touched by Jesus, she touched all of us in ways words can never fully describe.

Now she is with her eternal family—the family of God—and in the loving arms of Jesus, her Savior.

Honeybee was preceded in death by her husband, Neal Kirkness of Billings; her parents, Eddie and Esther Morris; her sister, Diane Dickert; her brother, Ronald “Hoss” Morris; and her nephew, Jared Dickert, all of Helena.

She is survived by her children: Mark Brown (Kelly) of Helena; Todd Brown (Teal); and Shauna King (Karson) of Billings. She is also survived by her grandchildren: Lindsay Brown (Miriam) of Chicago; Kyle Brown (Leah); Abbey Brown (Matt Swenson); and John Griffin, all of Helena. Her great-grandchildren include Kiera Brown, Laureen Weaver, Tatem Repnak, Porter Brown, and Mira Swenson, all of Helena, Montana.

A celebration of life service will be held on April 11, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Grace Fellowship., located at 3201 Highway 78, Absarokee, Montana. Pastor Justin Wayland will officiate. Please join us in the fellowship hall for lunch following the service. All are welcome to attend. Michelotti-Sawyers Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

Burial will take place at Sunset Memorial Gardens, 1721 Center Avenue in Billings at 2:00 p.m.

The family wishes to thank Canyon Creek Memory Care, its employees, Compassus Hospice, and all who lovingly cared for our mother in her final years. You were a true blessing to her and to us—faithful instruments of the Lord’s mercy. We thank you, and may God bless you.

“The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the Lord lift up His favor upon you and give you peace.”