Thomas Francis Sharkey

Tom was born October 30, 1931 in Philadelphia the son of the late Thomas and Rebecca (Porter) Sharkey. He was raised in South Philadelphia giving him his roots. Following a stint in the US Army, he attended St. Joseph’s College studying labor relations. He held many significant leadership roles in the United Electrical Workers Union and AFSCME. From there he went on to serve as Director of Human Resources for the New York State Office of Mental Health and later was an accomplished labor arbitrator. Tom was dedicated to fairness and justice for all in the work place. He retired at age 76 when he and his wife Linda moved to the San Francisco Bay area. Recently Tom and Linda moved back to the east coast settling happily in St. James, Southport, NC.

Tom loved life and touched the hearts of many he met. Often he could be seen driving his 76 Eldorado with the top down, a straw hat and smoking a cigar with Lily, his dog, in the front seat. An avid boater, Tom spent many years boating on Lake George, the Long Island Sound and the San Francisco Bay. Most recently his days were spent enjoying the slower pace of life in the South - golfing, boating and having fun with friends old and new.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Linda Sharkey; two sons, Thomas F. Sharkey and wife Theresa, Matthew Sharkey and wife Maria; four loving grandchildren of whom he was so proud, Kaitlyn Murrin – Sharkey and wife Chrissy, Christopher Sharkey, Michael Sharkey, and Marina Sharkey; and a sister Marie “Honey” Sharkey and husband Tom Polson.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, October 23rd from 3:00pm to 4:30pm in the Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral Service Chapel, 1411 N. Howe St. Southport, NC.

The family will receive friends from 2pm to 3pm at the funeral home.

In lieu of flowers memorial contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.

Online condolences may be made at www.peacocknewnamwhite.com.

Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral and Cremation Service.