Rep. Jack Sharp, R-East Ridge, died Sunday after a struggle with lung cancer.

He was a former mayor of East Ridge and a Korean War veteran.

Rep. Chris Clem said, "State Rep. Jack Sharp stood out as a family man and an elected official with integrity. Jack Sharp was a veteran who served with distinction in Korea. Jack Sharp's integrity served East Ridge well as their mayor. For the last 11 years he continued serving with distinction as a legislator in Nashville.

"Jack was never a politician who pandered for votes. Jack had firm and well thought out convictions which he developed over his 70 years on this earth. He voted his conscience. And, in return, voters returned him to office in ever growing margins. He was beloved by his district. He was loved even more by those who served with him in Nashville. His convictions never wavered.

"Jack will be remembered more for his family. Proverbs 17:6 states, "Grandchildren are the crown of old men, and the glory of sons is their fathers." Jack had four children, 10 grandchildren and 15 great-grandchildren. Every time I visited Jack's home he would have baskets and boxes full of toys for his grandchildren and great-grandchildren. On his deathbed Jack's extended family was present and surrounded him with love and prayers as he passed from this life.

"Jack Sharp will be remembered most as a loving husband, a loving father, a wonderful grand/great grandfather, and a good friend."

Congressman Zach Wamp said, "On behalf of the citizens of Tennessee's Third district, I send condolences to the family of Rep. Jack Sharp. We mourn his loss to this world but praise his life of service to others and humility before God and his fellow man.

"He will always be remembered as a trusted friend and dedicated public servant. Our prayers will be for peace and comfort during this most difficult time."

Stuart James, chairman of the Hamilton County Democratic Party, said, "I just learned of Jack Sharp’s death. Serving the public is a great calling, and there are times when party politics must be set aside. This is one of those times, and as chair of the Hamilton County Democratic Party I want to express my deepest sympathies to the Sharp family. I am asking everyone to keep the Sharp family in their prayers, as I will do. Jack Sharp decided to serve the public in the State Legislature; he should be commended on seeking public office, choosing to serve his community regardless of his party affiliation.

"The County Commission will now have the task of filling this seat. The commission must act immediately and responsibly. We must not allow the seat to remain vacant, as the State Legislature is in session, and the community needs a Representative to serve the public good. I would also encourage the County Commission to appoint a progressive candidate, someone who understands the role of government, standing for improving education, equalizing funding for education, and working to bring job opportunities to our community. I would encourage the commission to consider appointing someone who will represent the needs of the citizens of Hamilton County, as well as the district. I will encourage a Democrat to seek the position, as it is my belief our local party has a platform best suited to serve the needs of the people of this community.

"For now, however, our thoughts and prayers must be with the Sharp family. We must remember, however, that we must move forward, moving forward to insure good representation for the people of this community in Nashville."

Democratic candidate for County Commission in East Ridge, John Bailes, said, "Everyone had a kind word about Jack Sharp. Everyone wished him wellness and health and prayed for him daily.

“He will be missed. He served our country and our community. I have nothing but the highest respect for those who serve their community in public office. Let us pray for his friends and family during this time of grief, yet let us encourage others to serve their community as Jack Sharp did so faithfully.”

It will be up to the County Commission to name his replacement.

Rep. Sharp was born Feb. 21, 1936, in Knoxville. A Methodist, he and his wife have four children.

He attended the Knox County public schools, Maryville College and Chattanooga State Community College.

He was a House member of the 99th through 104th General Assemblies. He was a member of the House Agriculture Committee and House Transportation Committee and was vice chairman of the House Public Transportation and Highways Subcommittee.

He had a life membership in the National Rifle Association and was a member of the American Legion, United Methodist Men and the Marine Corps League. He was a life member of East Ridge Lodge #755 F&AM. He was in the
Tennessee Lodge of Research and the
Pachyderm Club as well as the Chattanooga Scottish Rite and Alhambra Shrine.

He was on the board of trustees of East Ridge Hospital and the Area Four Special Olympics.