Martha Sharpe

Martha Sharpe, 70, loving wife, mother and grandmother died at home on March 12, 2012 after a courageous and inspirational 13 plus year battle with cancer. Martha is survived by her lifelong partner, friend and husband, Jim Sharpe and her wonderful children and grandchildren who brought her so much peace and joy: son, Greg Sharpe, his wife, Margaret and grandson, Alex; daughter, Stacey Dunlap, her husband, Sean and granddaughter, Ashley Meyer. Other surviving family members include: her brother-in-law, Mike Sharpe, wife, Yanira, and their children, Katrina and Christian; brother, Dr. George Hayes and wife, Debbie; sister, Dr. Mary Jackson and husband, Peter. Martha is also survived by many friends and loved ones whose lives she touched. Everyone who met Martha knew her as a very positive, life-affirming, joyous presence in their lives. She embraced life with an energy and enthusiasm that was infectious. Martha graduated from Adairsville High School and received her B.A. Degree from Texas Western University in El Paso. She received her Master’s Degree in Library Media Science from Georgia State University. Martha was a teacher and librarian early in her career. Her media skills took her to Jordan, Jones and Goulding Engineers where she was a valued employee for 8 years. She then went on to become founder and CEO of The File Cabinet, a records management company. The File Cabinet was widely recognized for its professionalism and high quality service. As a leader in the field, Martha served as President of the Atlanta Chapter of ARMA. Despite her many professional achievements, when asked what her greatest accomplishment was, she always responded “my family”. Martha lived a very full life. She was a learner who had several avocations. Most recently she thoroughly enjoyed birding across the U.S. and beyond. She was an avid traveler. She and Jim traveled the globe. Her greatest joy and delight was in the trips she took with her whole family, including Alex and Ashley. Martha may have been challenged in her health but definitely not in her big heart and giving spirit. She volunteered in several capacities and was an active member of Oak Grove United Methodist Church. Martha blessed us all by her presence. The funeral service will be Thursday, March 15, 2012 at 11 o’clock at Oak Grove United Methodist Church, 1722 Oak Grove Rd., Decatur, GA 30033-122. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service in the church parlor. Interment will follow at Arlington Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Oak Grove United Methodist Church or to a charity of choice. Arrangements by H.M. Patterson and Son, Arlington Chapel, Atlanta, GA (404) 851-9900.