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Irving L. Sharp
Irving L. Sharp, of Mickleton, formerly of Swedesboro passed away at his home, with his family by his side, on March 19. He was born to Leslie and Gladys Sharp in Swedesboro. Irv became an Eagle Scout in his youth and played Little League with the Pieltowners. He graduated from Swedesboro High School in 1951. He was one of the greatest athletes to come from our area. After graduation he went on to play pro baseball for the Southwestern League in Clovis, New Mexico where he excelled at second base. His high school prowess earned him a spot in the South Jersey Hall of Fame in 2003. In his later years he loved playing golf, bowling and on was on a senior softball team with the guys. Drafted into the Army from 1953-1956, he served as a Presidential Honor Guard.
He was a lifelong member of Bethesda United Methodist Church serving as a Trustee and, with his gift of gab, made everyone feel welcome. He organized the Bethesda Golf Open for many years. Irv earned a living as an insurance agent going house to house to collect premiums. Customers knew he wasn’t just interested in a check, he made many a friend along the way. Swedesboro could not ask for a better citizen. On his morning walk he would carry a bag and a stick and pick up trash along the way. Irv’s suits were always pressed, shirts starched and shoes polished. Never a hair out of place and always standing tall. He spoke with confidence but listened with purpose. As a dad he was not known as being strict, but his hugs let his daughters know they would always be safe.
Whether taking a hike in the woods or swimming in the ocean after lifeguard hours, the girls knew Dad had it under control. Of course, he really found his calling as a grandfather. His face beamed with pride at the mention of any of his grand or great-grandkids.
The handsome Irv saw a pretty girl walking down the street. He’d holler “Hey’. The young Jean Kerswell made it clear she didn’t like being addressed as “Hey.” Irv smiled and talked around her initial response. They’d share a 63 year marriage blessed by two daughters, Terri Overbey and Carol (Larry) Gardiner; grandchildren, Garrison, Cameron (Kelsie), Benjamin (Abbie), Caitlin and Grant; great grandchildren, Teddy and Sammie and son in law, Doug (Betsy) Overbey.
Immediate family will celebrate his life in a private service due to government restrictions
15 Comments
What a great man and family. So sorry for your loss.
So sorry to hear this. Sending prayers to the family. What a wonderful man.
My deepest sympathy to the Sharp family. Please know you are all in my thoughts and prayers!
I have so many fond memories with Uncle Irv, Aunt Jean and the crew we used to boat, ski and fish with as a kid. Honored to have been able to call him part of our family. I used to call him Mr. Sharp as a kid out of respect, but he and Mrs. Sharp wouldn’t have it. So from that moment on, they were always known as Aunt Jean and Uncle Irv. Hugs and prayers for all of you as your mourn his passing and celebrate his arrival in heaven.
Jean, Carol, Terri and family… The Bellace family sends sincere condolences and much love to our neighbors. Irv will remain in our hearts and memories: smiling as he walked through town, twinkling eyes whenever he saw you, and always a kind gesture or word. He now serves on another honor guard…for our lord. May you feel his loving arms around you and may he soar with the angels. Rosie Bellace
Irv definitely left his mark on the community. He and his wife Jean were always such pleasant folks. The last time I saw them was at the Christmas parade in front of Bethesda. My prayers go out to Jean and all her family.
Always thought of irv as a good man, he shared some good times with Jamie when we were at their house for bible study will keep all of you in our prayers as you get through this time.
sorry to hear this I only new him from seeing him come to church I would sometime help him with the elevator we will all miss him
Jean and family, our most heartfelt sympathy reaching out to you and hugs in Irv’s passing. You were the best neighbors anyone could want. Irv was one nice fella, always had a happy word or wave when we saw him. May you find peace with all the outpouring love from everyone who knows the Sharp family. We will keep you and your family in our prayers.
Dear Mrs. Sharp, Terri ,Carol and families, Our deepest sympathy for your loss. Mr. Sharp was one of the kindest people I have ever known. Please know you are all our thoughts and prayers.
Ed and Stephanie (Massimino) Henry
I was honored to know Irv in his later life. I enjoyed his stories of baseball. Could always see the love between Irv and Gene. May God be with you all at this time.
Mrs Sharp and family Thank you for your kindness as your smile at the door on Friday .But may it bring some comfort and help ease your sorrow too.To know that warmest thoughts are with you and family again thank you for letting me take care of my friend Mr Sharp
To know Irv (Pop Pop) was to love him! ❤️
Uncle Irv was a great uncle that was loved by all. Always a kind word ~ never heard him talk bad about anyone. Condolences, love, and hugs to Aunt Jean, Terri, Carol, and whole family. So sorry we could not make it back to NJ for his service. He loved his family and beamed when talking about them. He knew who I was every time I came to visit. I will treasure our baseball conversations the most. Russ, smiling, will never forget the kitchen remodel. Our deepest love to all ~ Russ and Donna Coco
Your family are in our thoughts and prayers 💓🙏🏼
Love
Tom And Matteo