John E. Sharp

On Sunday evening, September 9, 2018, John Emerson Sharp, loving husband, father and grandfather, passed away at age 92.

John was born in July of 1926 in Providence, RI. At the age of 17, he answered the call to defend our country and freedoms by fighting in the Pacific during World War II. A few years later, on a fateful day at Rocky Point Amusement Park, he met and was scooped up by the love of his life, Grace (Hartley) Sharp. They wed on January 17, 1949, and together raised four sons, William, James, Gary and Michael. John was a dedicated employee of Texaco Company for 35 years until he retired at the age of 55. During the 68 years they were together, John and Grace were also blessed to watch their family grow with daughters-in-law, eight grandchildren, three step-grandchildren, thirteen great-grandchildren and three step-great-grandchildren.

If John was known for anything, it was his playful nature. He was happy to tell anyone that his own mother warned his wife that he would never grow up. His playfulness took many forms, from dad jokes, to well timed hair pulls, to a game of basketball anytime, anywhere. He even ran the recreation commission basketball program in Coventry for many years, and was seen playing the full court and shooting hoops regularly well into his late eighties. In addition to being a child at heart, John loved to travel with his wife. At 19 separate visits, it was very clear that his favorite other place to be was Hawaii, with its warm weather and hula dancers. If he couldn't make it to Hawaii, his next choice was Foxwoods; he had a system he knew worked and was happy to share it with anyone. John also made it known this week, after years of wrestling and resisting, that he accepted the invitation to receive Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior.

John was preceded in death by his brothers, Frank and Maurice, and his wife, Grace, to whom he ministered faithfully and compassionately until she went home to the Lord two years ago. He is survived by his sons, William and wife Joanne, James and wife Donna, Gary and wife Sharon, and Michael. He also leaves behind several sisters-in-law and a brother-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, September 14th, 2018 from 10am - 12pm followed by a memorial service starting at 12pm at Gorton-Menard Funeral Home, 721 Washington Street, Coventry, RI 02816.

At 2pm there will be a short graveside service with an honorary salute at the Veteran's Memorial Cemetery, 301 S County Trail, Exeter, RI 02822.

For online condolences please visit www.gortonmenardfuneralhome.com