Carlisle Fire Company is mourning the loss of longtime member, Marvin Sharp who passed away September 26 at the age of 66. Sharp had been a member of Carlisle Fire Company for over 50 years.
Marvin Cannon Sharp was born in Milford, the son of the late Walter H. and Mary Jane Cannon Sharp. He graduated from Milford High School and began working as a plumber for Walter H. Sharp and Son Plumbing and Heating, a company owned by his father. Sharp took over the company and operated it for many years before retiring in 2018. Sharp also worked as a State of Delaware plumbing inspector for almost five years.
Sharp was very active in the community, serving as a charter member of the Carlisle Fire Company Junior members and currently serving as a life member of the company. Sharp served in many capacities with the company, including Ambulance Captain, President and Board of Director. He also chaired many committees and projects, serving as a mentor to many members.
He also served as a member of the Kent County Fire Fighter’s Association where he served as a Director and President. He was also a member of several committees for the Delaware Volunteer Firefighter’s Association, serving as President of that organization in 2003-04. He was appointed as a Commissioner of the State of Delaware Fire Prevention Commission, serving for 15 years. His unwavering commitment to the Carlisle Fire Company and the Delaware Volunteer Fire Service led to his induction into the DVFA Hall of Fame.
In addition to his fire service, Sharp served on the City of Milford Planning and Zoning Commission, acting as chairman for the past several years.
A devout Philadelphia Phillies and Washington Redskins fan, Sharp also loved attending crab feasts. He loved his family dearly, especially his grandchildren who were the light of his life.
Sharp is survived by his loving wife of 33 years, Donna Elliott Sharp, a sister, Brenda Sharp and his grandchildren, Curtis Sharp, Blaire Sharp and Ezra Sharp, as well as a great grandson, Drake Gray. He was preceded in death by his parents and an aunt, Gladys Sharp.
Members of the community were stunned to learn of Sharp’s death.
“So sorry to hear of Marvin’s passing,” Ed Morris commented on a social media post created by the fire company. “Such a king and distinguished career of volunteering. I know he will be missed by many. Keeping his family and the CFC in my thoughts and prayers.”
John Morgan also expressed shock at his loss.
“This one is a shocker. Marvin was my CPR instructor from wayback 35 years ago at the Fire School,” John Morgan posted. “I attended many meetings and many functions and Marvin always treated me with respect and even in the business he was my plumbing instructor. Never had a problem, was very easy-going. He would let you know if you were wrong, but he would also praise you if you were right. Rest in peace, m brother, my mentor, as well as my colleague. You will never be forgotten.”
Mike McMichael posted that Sharp was a role model.
“I’m heartbroken to learn this happened,” McMichael posted. “Marvin was like a role model for me. In my early days, he was my AMB/EMT instructor and encouraged me to pass the class and other higher-level classes to become a DSFS instructor. I will always be thanking and remembering you, Marvin Sharp.”
A viewing will be held from 11 AM to 2 PM on Saturday, October 4 at the Grier Memorial Hall of the Carlisle Fire Company, 615 Northwest Front Street. At 1:30 PM, a Firefighter’s Walk-Through Time of Honor will be held with a Funeral Service at 2 PM. Burial will be private. Fellowship following the service will be held with food provided at the fire hall.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Carlisle Fire Company, PO Box 292, Milford DE 19963.
