Carlton's obituary
Carlton James (Jim) Sharp, 92
Bluemont, Virginia
Carlton James (Jim) Sharp, of Bluemont, Virginia, passed away peacefully on August 20, 2024, at Commonwealth Senior Living in Berryville, surrounded by his loving family.
Jim was born on January 19, 1932, in Yonkers, New York, to Charlton and Susanne (Rowden) Sharp. As one of five brothers, Jim's early years were marked by frequent relocations due to his father's military service. Notably, his family was evacuated from Panama after the attack on Pearl Harbor, and Jim celebrated his 10th birthday aboard a military transport ship.
In his youth, Jim joined the Merchant Marines before enlisting in the Army, where he served as a Sergeant during the Korean War. After his service, Jim returned to Greenbelt, MD, where he pursued higher education, earning a double major from Southeastern University in Washington, D.C. He then embarked on a distinguished 25-year career as an auditor with the Central Intelligence Agency, working in San Jose, CA, and later in the D.C. area.
Jim married Jean (Reinhardt) Sharp in 1960, and the couple celebrated nearly 64 years of marriage. Together, they traveled extensively throughout the U.S., Europe, and Costa Rica. Jim's enduring love for the water was evident in his enjoyment of sailing, his time spent living near the Shenandoah River, and his fishing at his private pond. A true handyman, Jim launched a construction business after retirement, working alongside his sons to build and remodel homes, including their residence in Bluemont.
A dedicated member of the American Legion and a lifelong supporter of various veteran service organizations, Jim took pride in his contributions to the American Red Cross, where he donated 96 liters of blood and was an apheresis donor.
Jim is survived by his wife, Jean Sharp, of Bluemont; their three children, Doug (Denise) Sharp of Manassas, VA, Barry Sharp of Bluemont, VA, and Denell (Sharp) Deavers of Bluemont, VA; three grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; and his brother, Ron (Lynn) Sharp of Wildomar, CA. He was preceded in death by his three brothers, John, Thomas, and Richard Sharp.
Inurnment at Arlington National Cemetery is anticipated.
Jim's life was a testament to his service, dedication, and love for his family. He will be dearly missed by all who knew him.