Helen Laura Sharp

Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Ms. Sharp attended the Lincoln School before going on to Smith College, of which she was proudly a lifelong “Smithie,” and later the Harvard Graduate School of Education. The daughter of an esteemed physician, she took pride in being both a doctor’s daughter and a woman shaped by rigorous learning and independence.

After college, she moved to New York City, where she taught at the Brearley School. A resourceful and independent single mother, she raised her only child in Brookline, Massachusetts, instilling in him her values of intellect and devotion.

Ms. Sharp was, by temperament, a sparkplug. She delighted in orchestrating family gatherings, keeping up a lively schedule of symphony performances, spending time as an active member of the Harvard Club of Boston, and looking forward to regular trips to New York City. She brought energy, intelligence, and an instinctive sense for what made life fun—enjoying family and the familiar, making thoughtful plans, and exploring culture. Her presence filled a room.

She is survived by her loving son, Dr. John Sharp, and his wife, Katie; her granddaughters, Dr. Ashley Sharp and her wife, Danielle, and Else Sharp; her great-grandson, Alistair; her brother-in-law, David Brodsky; her cousins, Tobie Levine and Anna Goldman; her nieces and nephew, Anne Sternlicht, Jane Sprung, and Jim Brodsky; her great-nieces and great-nephews, Alex, Eliza, George, Jeffrey, Robert, and Whitney; and her beloved dog, Willie.

She was predeceased by her sister, Carolyn Sharp Brodsky, and by her parents, Sarah Sharp and Dr. Ezra Sharp.

Private arrangements are under the care of Sugarman-Sinai Memorial Chapel, Providence, Rhode Island. For condolences: www.sugarmansinai.com