Colonel D. Wayne Sharp

David Wayne Sharp (Wayne) passed away peacefully on January 18, 2026 at the age of 86 in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania. Born on October 11, 1939 in Paragould, Arkansas to James "Red" and Frances (Evans) Sharp, Wayne lived a life full of grace, love, passion, service, and devotion to his family, friends, and country.

He married his beloved college sweetheart, Patricia (Patty) Margaret Fairhead Sharp on September 7, 1963 at Blessed Sacrament church in Jonesboro, Arkansas. Together they shared 62 years of "pure bliss" in their marriage in which they built and sustained a beautiful family.

Wayne graduated from Arkansas State University, Jonesboro (where he met Patty) in 1961. Upon graduation, he was commissioned into the United States Air Force as a 2nd Lieutenant. He served as a tactical air traffic controller and later as a programmer. Wayne retired from the Air Force in 1990 as a "full bird" Colonel after 25 years of distinguished service, culminating with his command over the 113th Tactical Control Flight. He also had a civilian career, working as an information systems manager, HR Director, and plant manager, with notable careers with NCR and Mack Printing.

His favorite career, though, was being a commander for his "troops" of 6 children: David Patrick Sharp of Orlando, Florida, Michael Wayne Sharp of York, Pennsylvania, Daniel Edward Sharp (Lynne) of Holly Springs, North Carolina, Peter Joseph Sharp of Allentown, Pennsylvania, Elizabeth Ann Sharp (Don Lavigne) of Lubbock, Texas, and Samuel Bradley Sharp (Michelle) of Saint Johns, Florida. Wayne was a cherished grandfather to 6 grandchildren: Matthew, Madison, Lyndsey, Carson, Summer, and Samantha, a loved great-grandfather to Olivia and Brewer, and a beloved uncle of many nieces and nephews. In addition to his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren, he is survived by his sisters-in-law, Rosemary Fairhead of Hot Springs, Arkansas and Mary Lee Fairhead Shipp of Saint Louis, Missouri. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, Red and Francis Sharp, his sister, Sandra Everett (Sharp) and brother-in-law, Jack Everett.

Known for his genial disposition, charming demeanor, and an ever-present, welcoming smile, it's no surprise that Wayne never met a stranger and left a lasting impression on all whom he encountered. He was quick to provide an endearing, often humorous, nickname to those close to him, as many a "shrewdie" can attest. He always had a colorful comment at the ready; after strokes on the golf course, you could often hear him suffering through an errant "Wayne bounce" and during intense games of Hearts you might be the victim of his "slipping you the Queen." He loved all activities that brought family and friends (new and old) together, but cards and golf were two of his favorites. In fact, 27 years ago, Wayne and his son, Dan, founded the Sharp Family Classic, as way of bringing the family together to have some fun each year. The family's favorite memories of Wayne include joyful annual family vacations to Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, attending Penn State & Arkansas football games, backyard sports (he was known for his "Dark One" baseball pitch), playing the "Big Bad Wolf" when his children were young, traveling through Europe with Patty, watching Western movies, listening to music (especially Elvis), and showcasing his dance moves every chance he could.

Wayne was proud to have served his country, but his service wasn't limited to the uniform; he took great pleasure in giving back to his local community. He coached soccer and baseball, led the Cub Scouts, served as a United Way volunteer, transported veterans for health care, served as a Eucharist minister and a church greeter, worked at Musikfest, volunteered at Zoellner Arts Center, and was a member of the Knights of Columbus. Wayne was deeply loved by all who knew him, and his charisma, warmth, and generosity will be forever remembered.

The family extend special thanks to entire staff of Arden Courts Memory Care of Easton, Pennsylvania and Serenity Hospice of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania for their compassionate care: their dedication and grace greatly enhanced the last few years of Wayne's life.

Please join us for services at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Roman Catholic Church, 3219 Santee Road, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania 18020 on Saturday, January 24, with viewing at 10:00am and Mass at 11:00am. Services will be live streamed via Wayne Sharp Mass (ID: 856 3852 2294). Post services, Wayne will be entrusted to the care of Pearson Funeral Home of Bethlehem, Pennsylvania until his interment at the Veterans National Cemetery in Fayetteville, Arkansas.

In lieu of flowers, the family is creating a 2026 Memorial Golf Tournament in Wayne's honor. Proceeds from the tournaments will go to charities to be named.