Sharkey was born on March 17, 1943 in Fredericksburg, VA to the late Isaac Thornton and Mary Ellen Staples. He proudly served his country as a member of the United States Air Force. He made a living as a painter, but lived for Friday nights with the James Monroe Yellow Jackets.
He continues on in the hearts of his wife of 39 years, Shelia R Staples; two sons, Thornton Staples, Jr. and wife Jessica Staples, Frederick Staples and wife Cara Staples; four daughters, Katina Thompson and husband Harold Thompson, Sabrina Staples, Selena Staples, Kristina Staples; adopted daughter, Shannon Brooks; thirteen grandchildren; a great-grandchild; a sister, Margaret Moore; and countless nieces and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Thursday, June 7 at 5pm at Mullins & Thompson Funeral Service 1621 Jefferson Davis Highway, Fredericksburg, VA 22401.
