Ruby Lee Sharpe

Ruby Lee Sharpe, 91, of Middleburg, Florida, entered eternal rest on October 25, 2025, surrounded by her loving family. She was born on May 21, 1934, in Jacksonville, Florida, to the late William and Essie Mae Norton. She was the loving wife to Jim Sharpe of 65 years.

Ruby attended Lee High School and worked as a bookkeeper in the accounting industry. She began working with Shands and Baker and later returned to Florida Rock Industries, Inc., retiring in 1998. Deeply rooted in faith, she was a devoted member of Blanding Boulevard Baptist Church for over 20 years before joining Black Pond Baptist Church in May 2024. She loved sharing her faith and witnessing to others about Jesus. She loved singing gospel music and sang in the choir when her health allowed.

Family was Ruby’s greatest joy. She was the proud matriarch—cherishing her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews. She loved telling stories, sewing, cooking, fishing, and even found enjoyment in washing clothes. An excellent cook and baker, her cakes and meals brought loved ones together. She also loved helping others, spending time at Fernandina Beach, and cheering for the Jacksonville Jaguars (until the last game!).

Ruby was preceded in death by her parents, William and Essie Mae Norton; her late husband, Jim Sharpe; brothers Ralph Norton (Darlene) and Albert Norton (Enrica); and sister Willie Mae Parker (Frank).

Left to cherish her memory are her sons Donnie Sharpe (Diane) and Gerald Sharpe; daughter Lynette Berlin (Ron); and a host of loving grandchildren and great-grandchildren and many nieces and nephews.

Visitation will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 6, 2025, at Black Pond Baptist Church, 3644 Old Jennings Rd, Middleburg, FL 32068, followed by the funeral service. Interment will take place at 2:30 p.m. (Lane 2) at Jacksonville National Cemetery, 4083 Lannie Rd, Jacksonville, FL 32218.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Autism Foundation or Black Pond Baptist Church in Ruby’s memory.

“Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies… Strength and honor are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.”

— Proverbs 31:10, 25