Donald L. Sharp, age 71, of Xenia, Illinois, passed away Monday night, July 23, 2018, at his home.

He was born December 30, 1946, in Wayne County, the son of Leonard Louie and Elsie Marie (Donoho) Sharp. He was united in marriage to Sharon Vest on Dec. 31, 1965.

Donald was a machinist for 21 years on the Illinois Central Railroad, and later continued working for George Smith Ag Service, retiring after 27 years. For the past 20 years he has served as a trustee and secretary for the Orchardville Fire Department, and was a past 20-year Volunteer Fireman and 3-year North Wayne EMT. Don has been a 16-year Trustee of the Orchard Township Board, and was serving on the Western Wayne Water Board. In the past, he carried out duties as a Republican Precinct Committeeman for 16 years, functioned as Tax Assessor for 12 years, and was on the Wayne City Unit 100 School Board for 12 years. Donald was a past member of the Johnsonville Ruritans, and was the sponsor of many St. Jude Bike-a-Thons over the years. He enjoyed visiting with friends, cutting wood, cooking Sunday dinners for his family, and spending time with his grandkids. Donald attended Orchardville Church.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years: Sharon Sharp of Xenia; mother: Elsie Sharp of Keenes; a son: Vincent (Missy) Sharp of Xenia; a daughter: Vadawn (Jeremy) Stroud of Iuka; four grandchildren: Dillon Sharp, Shelby Sharp, Jairva Stroud, and Jairen Stroud; a sister: Anita Dickerson of Flora; a brother: Gale (Tammy) Sharp of Keenes; an uncle: Norman (Geraldene) Sharp of East Alton; a brother-in-law: Jim Simmons of Iuka; and several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father: Reverend Leonard Louie Sharp; a sister: Thelma Simmons; and a brother-in-law: Roy Dickerson.

A funeral ceremony will begin 11 a.m. Friday, July 27, 2018, at Orchardville Church with Rick Hays and George Smith officiating. Visitation will be 6 until 8 p.m. Thursday at Orchardville Church, and on Friday 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. A procession to Jacob’s Chapel Cemetery for burial will follow. Arrangements are in the care of Frank & Bright Funeral Home in Flora. Memorial donations are suggested to either Orchardville Church or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and will be accepted through the funeral home. To share a memory or condolence, visit www.frankandbright.com.