Joseph Gary Sharp, 69, of Cleveland, Tennessee, passed away on Tuesday, June 28, 2016.
He was preceded in death by his father, Joseph Finley Sharp; and mother, Ada Mae Sharp.
Gary was born in Stinking Creek, TN on Aug. 13, 1946.He worked for Shoney’s Restaurant for over 27 years, serving time as Vice President of Shoney’s Inc, President and CEO of TPI Restaurants, and well a successful franchisee in the Orlando FL market. Gary also served as Chairman of the Board at Lee University in Cleveland TN. Gary enjoyed travelling, golfing, snow skiing, and spending time with family and friends.
Gary is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Joyce Fithian Sharp; two sons, Brent Sharp and wife Ashleigh (Sadler) and Bryan Sharp and wife Heather (Nelson); grandchildren, Carson and Alexann of College Grove TN and Jared and Alison Sharp of Orlando FL; brother, Roland Sharp and wife Barbara of Cleveland; and many nieces and nephews.
The Celebration of Gary’s life will be held at The Chapel on the campus of Lee University in Cleveland TN on Friday July 1 at 2 p.m. with Lee University President Dr. Paul Conn, Reverend Mitch Maloney, and his Lee College roommate, Dr. Dennis McGuire officiating.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Gary Sharp Scholarship Fund at Lee University, care of The President’s Office, Lee University, P.O. Box 3450, Cleveland, TN 37320.
Jim Rush Funeral and Cremation Services North Ocoee Chapel has charge of the arrangements.