Obituaries
Obituary: William "Bill" Sharp, Jr., 82, of Haddam
William, a decorated athlete in his youth, was a renowned aerospace engineer, holding several engineering patents throughout his career.
HADDAM, CT - (From Doolittle Funeral Home) William Sharp, Jr. (Bill) departed this life peacefully surrounded by his family on Monday, November 29, 2021.
He was born on August 11, 1939, in Cincinnati, Ohio to William Sharp, Sr. and Lessie Mae (Sutton) Sharp.
William married the love of his life, Deborah Ann (Ralls) Sharp on July 21, 1984, in New London, CT and lived in Haddam, CT. William graduated from Cass Technical High School in Detroit, MI where he excelled in track and field.
He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Engineering from the University of Michigan.
In the 1970’s, William was employed by Teledyne Ryan Aeronautical Company on one of the country’s first Drone Projects.
At the time, drones were referred to as unmanned air vehicles. Later in his career, he worked at Kaman Aerospace, United Technology Sikorsky Aircraft (Japan), and AgustaWestland (Italy) where he held the title of Project Aerospace Management Engineer.
He worked on several aerospace government contracts including one of his proudest accomplishments - the development of the Black Hawk helicopter which is still used by the military today.
William holds several engineering patents related to aerospace design composites.
William’s hobbies included fishing, sailing, scuba diving, flying, smoking a good cigar and enjoying a flavorful Scotch! Above all things, William loved spending time with his family and friends. He and his wife filled their home with love, laughter and fantastic food.
William was a natural and creative chef, embracing all cooking styles leaving everyone WAITING for a delicious meal.
William was predeceased by his parents William Sharp, Sr. & Lessie Sharp, brother-in-law Gary Ralls of Willimantic, CT and niece Cydni Edwards of Detroit, MI.
William is survived by his wife of 37 years, Deborah Ann (Ralls) Sharp of Haddam, CT, daughter, Lauren Renee (Sharp) Mitchell, her husband Matthew, and granddaughter, Sienna Lovie Mitchell of North Haven, CT.
He is also survived by his sister Delores Greer of Detroit, MI, brother-in-law, Robert Ralls, Jr. & his wife Sharon of East Longmeadow, MA, sister-in-law Leah Ralls of Willimantic, CT, as well as several nieces, nephews, and other family members and friends.
William will be sorely missed by everyone who knew him.
Family and friends may call on Wednesday, December 8, 2021 from 5:00 pm - 7:00 pm at Doolittle Funeral Home, 14 Old Church St. Middletown.
A celebration of life will be held on Thursday, December 9, 2021 at 10:00 am at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, 346 Butternut St. Middletown.
Burial will follow in Indian Hill Cemetery in Middletown.
To share memories or send condolences to the family, please visit www.doolittlefuneralservice.com.
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