Dr. Michael Stephen Scharf MD

Dr. Michael Stephen Scharf, 83, passed away peacefully on April 14, 2026, surrounded by his family. Born on March 15, 1943, in Brooklyn, NY, Dr. Scharf was a pillar of the Jacksonville community, living a life rooted in family, tradition, and a deep sense of responsibility to future generations.

A Legacy of Healing and Leadership

A renowned Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Scharf’s professional contributions were vast. He was the founder and former President of the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute (JOI), where he mentored generations of surgeons and cared for thousands of patients. His expertise extended to the sidelines as a team physician for the Jacksonville Jaguars and several local high schools. Beyond medicine, he was a dedicated leader in the Jewish community, serving as President of Beth Shalom and holding board positions for numerous charitable organizations. He approached every role with humility, integrity, and a commitment to leaving the world better than he found it.

Family and Tradition

A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, Michael took immense pride in the family he built. He was the anchor of his home, known for his wisdom, dry humor, and love of entertaining. Whether hosting legendary Halloween parties or gathering loved ones for holiday traditions, he was happiest when his home was filled with family and friends.

A Life of Adventure, Art, and Sport

Michael had a zest for life that took him across the globe, including two meaningful trips to Israel. He was a refined collector of fine art from around the world and a lover of great food and wine. An avid outdoorsman, his younger years were spent palying tennis, boat trips to the Bahamas and snow skiing, while his later years were filled with local boating and golf. A lifelong, devoted fan of the Florida Gators and the Jacksonville Jaguars, Michael traveled to witness history at Super Bowls and other major sporting events throughout his life.

Survivors and Service

He is survived by his wife, Janet Scharf; his children, Bram (Staci) Scharf, Glenn (Tracy) Scharf, Craig (Tammy) Scharf, Christie (Brian) Anglea, and Ray (Ashleigh) Shaffer; his brother, Eugene (Deborah) Scharf; 13 grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren; A niece and nephew and many cousins. He was preceded in death by his parents, Saul and Beatrice Scharf.

A funeral service will be held on April 16, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Hardage-Giddens Oaklawn Chapel (4801 San Jose Blvd, Jacksonville, FL 32207), followed by a graveside service at Evergreen Cemetery (4535 N. Main St, Jacksonville, FL 32206).

Memorial Contributions

In honor of his commitment to his community, the family suggests donations be made to:

The Jewish Center Scharf Beautification Fund

The LJD Jewish Family & Community Services

Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens

Blood Cancer United (formerly The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society)

May his memory be a blessing.