Michael Drake Sharp

Michael Drake Sharp, 56, died April 23, 2016. He was born March 1, 1960 in Jackson, Mississippi. He was the son of Nancy A. Sharp and of the late Johnny B. Sharp. He attended schools in Columbus, Ga. and won the 8th grade art award. He played trombone in the award winning Hardaway High School marching band. He was inducted into the National Honor Society in 1977. He attended UGA and graduated from Middle Tennessee State in Murfreesboro, Tenn. with a BA in Sound and Recording. His love of music lasted his whole life and was evidenced by the multitude of concert tickets.

In the mid 2000s he transitioned to the building industry where he functioned as liaison for home buyers and builders assisting them in the move to their new home. Once the company closed, he returned to Athens, Ga. to help his Mother due to his father’s failing health. He was loyal son and a great asset during the difficult time of the family coping with the loss of Johnny Sharp. Drake had many friends and one of his favorite pastimes was cooking huge meals and grilling for them.

Drake loved his niece and nephew, Samantha and Zane White, and treated them like his own children. They had many adventures, including camping, rafting, skating and bowling. They adored their “Uncly, Uncly.” He had strong relationships with his cousins and remained close to all of them despite the distance between them. He was a lover of many activities including, water skiing, roller skating and anything to do with working with his hands. He often rode horses with his Dad and was a great lover of all animals.

Growing up, the family spent many days camping all over America and the contiguous countries. He and his sister never knew a hotel room until they were adults. His passion continued into adulthood. His greatest passion was his love of all forms of music. He grew to love Neil Diamond, along with the entire Sharp family, who attended many concerts together. He could find joy in the smallest nuance of an instrumental piece.

He was 6 years old when he welcomed his baby sister, Stephanie Sharp White. He was so tender and kind. Despite the age difference, they remained close.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, May 14, 2016 at 2 p.m. at the chapel of the First United Methodist Church in Athens, Ga.

In lieu of flowers the family has asked that donations be made in his name to the World Wildlife Fund: http://wwf.worldwildlife.org/goto/DrakeSharpMemorial.

Online condolences may be offered at www.bernsteinfuneralhome.com.

Bernstein Funeral Home and Cremation Service is in charge of arrangements.