of Little Rock, AR
May 11, 1952 - October 26, 2012
Paul Dewey Sharp of Little Rock, Arkansas passed away suddenly on October 26, 2012.
Paul lived an amazing life during his 60 years. He was born May 11, 1952 to Charles ''Ike'' and Billie Guerin Sharp. He graduated from Douglas High School in Douglas, Arizona and later earned both bachelor's and master's degrees from Ouachita Baptist University (OBU). While at OBU, he was a 1971 Rho Sigma Initiate and 1975 Reserve Officers Training Corps (ROTC) graduate. On January 6, 1979, he married Sherrie Lynn Brown of Little Rock, Arkansas at Immanuel Baptist Church.
Paul was an extremely talented and capable person with diverse interests. He was a scholar athlete in college, excelling in both baseball and football. The son of an accomplished coach, Paul also chose coaching as a career. That career began at his beloved OBU where he served as Defensive Line Coach, then Offensive Line Coach from 1974-1978. In 1979, he became Defensive Coordinator at the University of Central Arkansas, serving in that capacity until 1982 when he accepted the same position at Lamar University in Beaumont, Texas. In 1986, Paul was hired by Southwestern Oklahoma State University (SWOSU) as Head Coach where he remained for 19 years.
Paul's tenure at SWOSU was very successful. There he led teams to two conference titles and one divisional crown with the 1992 team finishing ranked number one in the NAIA. That year, SWOSU made its first trip to the NAIA playoffs since 1977. In 1996, Paul led the Bulldogs to their first-ever football National Title. By 2003, he was named the school's most winning coach in school history. Paul was awarded National Coach of the Year in 1996 and was a member of the American Football Coaches Association, the Oklahoma Coaches Association and served as President of the NAIA Coaches' Association from 1993-1994. After retiring from coaching, Paul became an agent for Mutual of Omaha Insurance.
Paul was a patriot who loved America and was a constant student of history. He appreciated the contributions made by those who came before him, and he loved to travel to locations rich with historical significance, read books on historical events, and listen to stories from elderly persons and veterans. He was a loyal friend, beloved by many. He had a special knack for making each person seem special.
He particularly loved his family. He was a devoted son and brother, always willing to give. Paul was a wonderful, fun and loving husband of almost 34 years. He was particularly fond of family vacations and made each one special. He was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Sherrie and his children Aaron (Tiffaney) Sharp of Benton and Adam (Julie) Sharp of Little Rock; his grandchildren, Hunter Sharp of Benton, and Aiden and Addison Sharp of Little Rock; his sister, Jane Sharp of Little Rock, his brother, David (Carrie) Sharp of Arkadelphia; nieces and nephews Jordan and Ashley Sharp of Arkadelphia and Claire and Baxter Woosley of Little Rock. Surviving in-laws include mother-in-law Joyce Brown, brothers-in-law David Brown and Steve Woosley and sister-in-law Debbie Woosley, all of Little Rock.
Paul loved his alma mater, his country, and his friends and family, but above all, Paul loved his Lord. He lived his life in an effort to glorify Christ and to lead others to Him. Paul was an active leader in each church he attended. As a member of Immanuel Baptist Church in Little Rock, Paul served as Chairman of the Deacons and taught weekly adult bible studies. His love of Ouachita Baptist University was an extension of his commitment to Christ. It was there that his father became a Christian, and throughout his life, Paul remained appreciative of the school's focus.
Funeral services will be held at Immanuel Baptist Church, 501 North Shackleford Road, Little Rock, Arkansas on Monday, October 29, 2012 at 11:00 a.m. with Dr. Gary Hollingsworth and Dr. Bill Brown officiating. A reception will follow. Interment was at Old Rosemont Cemetery in Benton, Arkansas. No formal visitation is planned. Open viewing will be from 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Sunday, October 28, 2012, at Roller-Chenal Funeral Home, (501)224-8300. Pallbearers include: Rev. Phil Spigner, Robert Hallmark, Bob Beech, Dan Kirkpatrick, Mike Ober, Don Bush, Jordan Sharp, Baxter Woosley, and Joe Martin. Honorary Pallbearers include the SWOSU Football Teams of 1986-2004, Deacons of Immanuel Baptist Church, Little Rock, Arkansas, and Deacons of Emmanuel Baptist Church of Weatherford, Oklahoma.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be sent to the Ouachita Baptist University Athletic Department, 100 Campus, Arkadelphia, Arkansas 71998.
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78 Condolence(s)
Vicki Hohstadt Lynn Illingworth
Thursday, August 21, 2014
Rest in God's arms Paul ... you were well loved.
Mike McGuire
Friday, January 4, 2013
My prayers to the whole family. Paul and I were in ROTC and graduated together.
Angie Barber
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Bob and Karen Travis
Friday, November 2, 2012
Sherrie and family,
We just wanted you to know you remain in our thoughts and prayers. It was my privilege to serve on the SWOSU Faculty with both you and Paul. He obviously left a lasting and influential impression where he served. We wish all of you God's peace.
John & Dianna Mosburg
Thursday, November 1, 2012
We were so sorry to hear about Paul. Our thoughts and prayers are with you at this time.
Tona Wright
Thursday, November 1, 2012
My deepest sympathy to all the Sharp Family! Paul touched many lives in his short time here, he will be missed by many.
Brent Bryant
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
I was saddened when I heard of Coach Sharp's passing. He had a very positive impact on my life back in 1986-87 when I played for him. His commitment to Christ and his family was a great example that impacted many young lives. I am a better man today because of Coach Sharp's influence on me. May God comfort you during this time.
Donna Foster
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
It was such a pleasure being friends with Paul in high school, and I am so grateful to have had the chance to visit with him at our last reunion. My prayers and love go out to the entire family.
"When I come home to Heaven
How joyful it will be!
For on that day at last
My risen Lord I'll see." -Beth Stuckwish
Rest in Peace, dear Paul
Ginger&Tom
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sherrie, just wanted you to know how sorry we are about Paul..we didn't get the word til sometime Friday morning and then left for the weekend without any details, but I want you to know how shocked we were at the news. You were in our thoughts all weekend and in our prayers as well....we pray for God's peace to surround you and uplift you in the days ahead.
Jean Hoppe
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sherrie, Jovena told me about your husband. I am so sorry to hear this. I didn't know Paul but I knew you from our trip to Boston and I knew that if you had been married for 34 years then he must have been a special man because you are a special lady. I know you are gaining strength from God and my prayers are with you and your family.
Jennifer Franklin
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sherrie and Family,
I am so sorry for your loss. Praying for divine strength for you and your family during this time.
Jennifer Franklin
Atria Regency, Mobile, AL
Luke Williams
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this very difficult time. May the Lord give you strength through family, close friends, and His Word to help you get through this.
Sheri Swindler
Wednesday, October 31, 2012
Sherrie,
My prayers go out to you and your family at your great loss. Just know that I love you and I'm praying for you...
Sheri Swindler
Tom McConnaughey
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Paul was a mentor as coach when I GA'd at UCA and was also my offensive coordinator my senior year for the Bears. Loved him, passionate teacher, role model, tough taskmaster, and friend-he knew how to get the best out of everyone and enjoyed the process involved in football. Will miss him but never forget him! Coach Sharp. Our prayers are for him and Sherrie at this sad time.
Jim Carr
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Sorry to hear about your loss. It has many years since we had seen Paul my wife and I went to same church in Douglas Az when Paul was growing up and playing footballs. I know Paul has gone to a better place and meeting again with Ike and Billie.
Sheila Herrera
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
RIP Coach Sharp, thank you for everything you did for my son at SWOSU. He respected you.
Darrel Huish
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Jane and David,
My genuine sympathy for the loss of your brother. I have such good memories of shooting baskets in your back yard, and being associated with Paul and your family. My best wishes that you find joy and comfort in the days ahead.
Darrel
Terry & Karen Lyons
Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Heartfelt sympathy to you and your family.
Jamee Ragland
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie (and family)-
Please accept our deepest condolences for your loss. You and your family are in our prayers and thoughts.
Sincerely,
Jamee and Aaron Ragland
Barry Francis
Monday, October 29, 2012
Mike Ebbert
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie, Kristina and I both wanted to express our sadness in Paul's passing. I spoke with him Thursday about missing him on the World Series Trip. Don't know of any words to say to make things better, he was one fine man and will miss him. Our prayers to you.
Carol and DeWayne Knudson
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie,
We have thought of you and your family a million times over the past several days. I enjoyed our dinner together a few weeks ago as we shared some fun past events. You are in our hearts and prayers.
God bless you.
Sue Ball
Monday, October 29, 2012
Words seem so inadequate, so my heartfelt love to you and the boys.
Praying God's love will envelope and sustain you in the days ahead.
Mr. and Mrs. Hosea Fisher
Monday, October 29, 2012
Our sincere prayers and love to the family.May God be with you through all these trials.May God keep you and sustain throughout your life. Love Hosea(Joe) Fisher and Family.
Laurie Benson Jordan
Monday, October 29, 2012
May the comfort of God help you during this difficult time. Hold tight to memories for comfort and strength.
Laurie Benson Jordan
Monday, October 29, 2012
May the comfort of God help you during this difficult time. Hold tight to memories for comfort and strength.
Laurie Benson Jordan
Monday, October 29, 2012
May the comfort of God help you during this difficult time. Hold tight to memories for comfort and strength.
Karen Newton Keely
Monday, October 29, 2012
Parying for comfort during this time for your family. Matthew 28:20
Mary McIntire
Monday, October 29, 2012
I was so shocked when I heard of Paul's passing.He was not only a good man, but also a good man of God. Quite an admirable accomplishment. The first time I met Paul, I knew he was a man of God. It just seemed to beam from him. May God send you comfort and give you peace.
Hector F. "Pato" Leon Jr.
Monday, October 29, 2012
Rest in peace Paul. You are with your Mom and my Coach. Sorry I missed you when you came to Douglas. God bless you.
Bobby G. Jones
Monday, October 29, 2012
Dear Sherrie, David and Jane,
As i told David, words cannot express the way I feel. Paul was a dear friend and we spent many good times together in the Army Reserves. I will miss him.
Love you all,
Bobby
Anita Rose
Monday, October 29, 2012
I loved working with Paul, he always had a great joke for me and called me "nice Anita". He will be missed dearly in the office. My prayers go out to his family.
Amanda Rowland
Monday, October 29, 2012
So sorry for your loss from everyone at Douglas and Milan Healthcare.
Proverbs 3: 5&6
Regina Watkins
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie,
I am so very sorry. You and your family are in my thoughts and prayers.
Jack & Nancy Hossler
Monday, October 29, 2012
Dear Sherrie,
"Precious in the site of our Lord is the death of HIS Saint"
"Weeping is only for a night, but JOY comes n the morning"
"Though we see through a glass dimly, some day soon, when we see HIM face to face, shall we know and be reuited once again"
Bill Keopple
Monday, October 29, 2012
To me Paul was a coach, mentor and friend that will be truely missed. I first knew Paul as my coach at UCA, then as a graduate assistant he was a mentor and then as a friend. I will miss him stopping in to visit with me and giving words of encouragement. To his family, my prayers are with you and my God comfort you in this time of great sorrow. He was truely a great man and it was an honor to know him.
Jessi Sabine
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie,
I am terribly sorry for your sudden loss. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I only wish I could do more for you during this very difficult time.
JIM BOYETTE
Monday, October 29, 2012
DAVID, I AM SO SORRY TO HEAR ABOUT PAUL. HE AND I HA D AGREAT VISIT AT THE GAME THE OTHER DAY.I WILL KEEP YOU AND HIS FAMILY IN MY PRAYERS AND REMEMBER HIM AS ONE OF THE 1970 AIC CHAMPS. GOD BLESS YOU .
Presha Merritt
Monday, October 29, 2012
Oh Paul. Such a short life. I know you are with your parents now, but you will be sorely missed on earth. You were my little brother growing up!
Kent Raymick
Monday, October 29, 2012
So very sorry to hear of Paul's sudden passing. He was a wonderful and caring man. I was blessed to have had his friendship and to be a baseball teammate of his at OBU.
Clay Roper
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie: I am truly sorry for your loss. It is such a shock. I always enjoyed Paul as a coach and a friend. He was always a class guy. Working with him those many years will be something I will always treasure. Tell your family that you are in my prayers.
Lee Brower
Monday, October 29, 2012
I always respected Coach Sharp. Enjoyed competing against him.
Shannon
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie
We are so sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers go out to you and your family.
Jeff and Shannon Stucker
Mark and Sonya Murphy
Monday, October 29, 2012
Adam, our deepest sympathies for you and your family.
Vonda Black
Monday, October 29, 2012
Sherrie,
I am so sorry for your tremendous loss. We all love you and are here for you should you need anything.
Marcia McKinstry Watkins
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, I'm so sorry for your loss. Thinking of you and your family.
Cherie Sauers
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie,
I can only imagine the sadness and loss you feel. God will wrap his loving arms around you and your family to provide comfort in this difficult time. In the days to come, just lean on Him! God Bless you!
Harvey and Brenda Warren
Sunday, October 28, 2012
We were so shocked and saddened to hear of the news of Paul's passing away so suddenly. He was a great follower of Christ who will be missed greatly.
What wonderful memories we have of fun-filled times as young couples with young children in Beaumont. Prayers lifted and love sent to all the family.
Mike Whaley
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie...Peggy and I are deeply saddened by the news of Coach's sudden passing. We are comforted in knowing that Paul now resides in the arms of The Savior. Paul's career at SW was a credit to the profession of coaching while being a tremendous asset by adding to the legacy of Bulldog Football. Paul "paid it forward" to the coaching profession by training the next generation to coach the "greatest game." Our thoughts and prayers are with your family. We are both so very lucky to cross the path of such a a devout Christian coach.
David and Donita Easley
Sunday, October 28, 2012
God Bless
Scott and Jill Christian
Sunday, October 28, 2012
We were so shocked and sad to hear of Paul's passing. We were so blessed to have him as a Sunday school teacher. He and Sherrie were like second parents to many of us in TnT. We will not forget his strong faith, his Christian example, or his loving heart, and continue to pray for God's comfort and strength for his family.
Jonathan Barrett
Sunday, October 28, 2012
My condolences go out to Paul's family. We went to school together in Douglas all of our young lives... I enjoyed playing golf with Paul at our 40 year high school reunion. Rest in peace my friend...
Larry wood
Sunday, October 28, 2012
I was sadden to hear of Paul's home going. I will never forgot the 1st times met he and Ernie Romero at Ouachita. Please accept my heart felt sympathy.IS.41:10 has brought me comfort in time of loss.
Steve & Dianne Williams
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie,
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the boys. It is never easy losing the ones we love.
Pam Wardlaw Cathey
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Jane, you have been in my thoughts every moment since I found out about your loss of Paul. As your college roomie, I had the pleasure of being Jane's roommate and Paul always made me feel like I was a part of your family. I am here for you and I pray that God will wrap you in his healing arms and bring you peace. I love you and the entire Sharp family.
Dale & Kay Smith
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Paul was a great friend since our time together as roommates in Arkadelphia. I've so enjoyed re-connecting in recent years. I am terribly saddened and send heartfelt sympathies to Sherrie and his entire family. All of you are in my thoughts and in my prayers. He will be missed by many.
Lea
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie
I am so sorry about your loss. One of my fondest memories of our time working together was meeting your family. It was a wonderful display of the warmth, love and respect a family shares. It is so hard to understand why things happen as they do. I know your strong faith and wonderful family will help you through this trying time. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Lea Cleveland
Chuck Edwards Ashcraft
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Paul was a friend of mine for the 19-seasons he coached the Southwestern Oklahoma State University Bu;;dpgs and I had the privilege of broadcasting the Bulldog football games on the radio. When I retired from radio in 2008 and was selected for inclusion in the SWOSU Athletic Hall of Fame, Paul was one of the six guests I was able to invite and he made the trip all the way from Little Rock to be in attendance on my special day. As I told the young man that replaced me as sportscaster at the radio station, Paul was the kind of man that I would want my own son to play for. My deepest sympathy to Sherrie, Aaron and Adam. Paul Sharp was a friend of mine.
Karen and Howard Close
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, we were shocked and saddened to hear of Paul's untimely passing. We have so many fond memories from your time in Beaumont and our visit to you in Oklahoma. We will be praying for you , the children and grandchildren during this difficult time, if there is anything we can do to help, please let us know. Karen and Howard Close
Donna Holmes
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sheri I am so sorry for your loss. I cannot begin to imagine what you are feeling. Please know that you and the family are in my prayers during this time and the months to come.
Jo Stucker
Sunday, October 28, 2012
I am one of many that is privileged to have known Paul. His legacy will live on in the hearts of many. I am so glad I got to see him recently and to be reminded of his strength and character as a wonderful husband and father. Sherrie, I am praying that God's grace will lift youand your family up and carry you through such a difficult time.
Harold & Betty Horton
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherri, Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. May God's love and grace bring you and your family peace and comfort today and the many days to follow. Coach Harold and Betty Horton
Glenda Mack
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, I am so sorry for your loss. I have watched your eyes light up as you have spoken of your husband on so many occasions. I can only imagine the depth of your loss. I offer my love and support during such a difficult time for you and your family. Glenda
Gail Lingor
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, your friends at RehabCare are shocked and saddened by your loss. We are all here for you during this difficult time in your life. Take care,
Gail
John Bortz
Sunday, October 28, 2012
I was saddened to hear the news of Coach Sharp passing. My family and I send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Sharp family.
John Bortz
Sunday, October 28, 2012
I was saddened to hear the news of Coach Sharp passing. My family and I send our thoughts and prayers to the entire Sharp family
Carl & Debbie Robertson
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, we were shocked and saddened to hear of Paul's death, but we know he is absent from body and present with the Lord.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
We pray the Lord will give you strength and peace through this difficult time.
Chuck Felts
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Coach you were a great man , thank you for your devotion to your family and to the many boys that you transformed into great young men !
Dan Nestlehut
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Sherrie, we, like everyone else, are still in shock and very much saddened to hear of Paul. .Jeanie and I have been around the world and back again with you and Paul, and we have great memories and pictures we will cherish from our trips. Paul and I had some great times and conversations boht off and on the golf course. His friendship will live on.
Shana Chaplin
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Paul and I lift you up in prayer as you travel this time of grief. We celebrate Paul's life with you and join you in missing a man of character, strength and wisdom.
Buddy adcock
Saturday, October 27, 2012
I'm so sorry for your loss...Paul was a great friend,teammate ...but more so a grat man. I was blessed to know him and I will miss him...
I will be praying for your family.
Scott Munn
Saturday, October 27, 2012
I'm sad to hear about the passing of Coach Sharp. He was always so good to me. He was very patient answering often-silly questions after a win or loss. He was the first coach I've working with who allowed me full access to a locker room before a game to see how players and coaches prepare. What a treat it was.
Thanks, coach. You were great.
Scott Munn
Assistant Sports Editor
The Oklahoman, OKC
Tara Smith
Saturday, October 27, 2012
My heart aches for your family. Paul was a great man. You guys were so very loved by our TNT class.
Vergil Roper
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Sherrie, We are very sorry to hear about Paul. I want to let you know, Chuck Edwards played Pauls remarks on the radio Friday from when they won their 1st championship . It was so funny to hear paul talk about how they went into that season and how surprized paul seem to be that they won. He walked around on cloud 9 for that whole season with that grin of his face. Thats the only way i can seem to remenber him. I want it to stay that way. We love you and wish you the best. Vergil and Sonya Roper
Rachelle Cannon Franz
Saturday, October 27, 2012
I am so saddened to hear about the loss of such an amazing man. Coach Sharp helped me survive some tough, college years and has always had a special place in my heart. I am praying God's peace surrounds each one of his precious family members.
Bobby Newman
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Our thoughts and prayers are with you at your time of loss. Paul was a fine Christian and will be missed by many.
Bobby and Joan Newman
Lacy Newman
Julie Calhoun Font
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Sherrie, I was so very sorry to hear about Paul. You and your family are in my prayers. Love you, dear friend.
Terry Peeples
Saturday, October 27, 2012
Paul was a special man with a special family. Well done Paul. You were a good and faithful servant.