Gilbert Ray Sharpe, 96, of Hiddenite, N.C., went to be with his heavenly father on Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the Gordon Hospice House in Statesville, N.C. He was born May 16, 1930, in Alexander County, the son of the late Ray Ivy Sharpe and Eva Sprinkle Sharpe.
Gilbert was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and community friend to everyone. He was a devoted and long-time avid member of South River Methodist Church in Hiddenite, where he taught Sunday school and sang in the choir. He retired from FCX (later Southern States), and farmed tobacco with his dad during his employment time with FCX. Growing vegetables was also a love of his for family and friends. He loved life and his family.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of almost 78 years, Nellie Looper Sharpe; his son, Monte Dale Sharpe; and a sister, Dorothy S. Gatton.
Family members left to cherish and honor Gilbert’s memories include his daughter, Sharon S. Sipe (William Earl); his grandchildren, Kimberly S. Lancaster (Charlie), Kristen S. Maristany (Carlos), and Aaron B. Sharpe (Angela); his great-grandchildren, Addison Palmer, Aiden Palmer, Carleigh Lancaster, Kai Maristany, Andrew Sharpe, Joseph Hawk, and Joshua Hawk; and a number of other family members and friends.
The family will receive friends from 2 until 3 p.m. on Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at South River Methodist Church with the funeral service to follow at 3 p.m. Pastor Doug Hochmuth and Pastor Joseph Conley will officiate. Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Pallbearers include Joseph Hawk, Aiden Palmer, Aaron Sharpe, Carlos Maristany, Charlie Lancaster, and Andrew Sharpe.
Memorials may be made to Iredell County Hospice, 2347 Simonton Road, Statesville, NC 28625. Condolences may be sent to www.adamsfunerals.com.
Adams Funeral Home and Cremation Services is honored to be serving the family of Gilbert Ray Sharpe.