Deacon James Edward Sharpe was born on January 25, 1940 in Valdosta, Georgia to the late Robert B. and Fannie Mae Sharpe.

He attended Valdosta City Schools and graduated from Pinevale High School, Class of 1958. He attended Valdosta Technical School and earned a certificate in automotive mechanics.

He was drafted in the Unites States Army and served his country through a tour in Korea.

He was united in holy matrimony to Dorothy Williams on June 26, 1966 and to this union, one child was born. At a very young age, James accepted the Lord as his personal Savior. He joined the Thomas Chapel Missionary Baptist Church and later moved his membership to Silver Run Missionary Baptist Church. He served faithfully in many capacities such as a member of the Usher Board, Sunday School Superintendent, Church Treasurer, and Chairman of the Deacon Board.

James was a hard-working man and started his first job at the age of 16. He worked for many years at Dowling Bag and retired as a Printing Press Operator Supervisor from Southern Bag. After his retirement, he loved to do yard work and established his own lawn service, which he continued until his health failed. James loved to watch sports and was an avid fan of the Atlanta Braves, Valdosta Wildcats, and Florida Gators.

He is preceded in death by his parents and two sister, Rose Mae Sharpe and Mildred Sharpe Andrews.

He leaves to cherish his memories a devoted wife of 54 years, Dorothy Williams; Daughter, Sheila Sharpe Washington; two grandchildren, Gregory Sharpe Washington, and Amber Washington; father-in-law, Eddie Williams, three sisters-in-law, Connie White, Virginia Howard (Henry),and Vickie Roberson (Bishop Willie); two brothers-in-law, Clifford Williams (Thelma), and Jerry Williams (Stephanie); three nephews he treated as sons, Lonnie Johnson (Sharon), Kevin Johnson Sr., and Michael Johnson; two devoted nieces, Kaye White Williams, and Aisha Hitson (Andre); devoted cousin, Susie M. Donaldson; three god sons, Russell McCoggle, Minister John McCoggle, and Deonte' Jones; his fur companion, Brownie; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and his Silver Run Baptist Church Family.

Graveside Service will be held on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at Pallbearer Cemetery. Final rites were entrusted to Harrington Funeral Home.