Betty Dean Sharp of Wauchula, FL, born July 30, 1934, passed away on September 27, 2023. She was dedicated to her family, friends, and community. Betty will be remembered as a gracious Southern lady. She was a beautiful and kindhearted person who was loved by all who knew her. Her memory will be forever treasured in their hearts.

Betty was a resident of Wauchula, FL for 63 years; she arrived two weeks before Hurricane Donna on a Greyhound bus with her young daughter, Jana, to join her husband Coach Leon Sharp. She was a supportive wife and dedicated mother. She kept the Sharp home running smoothly as her Leon coached, guided and inspired hundreds of Hardee's youth.

Betty was employed for 40 years as a receptionist/insurance secretary for Davis and Roberts, Inc. Betty loved reading and growing a family garden. Most of all she loved spending time with her family. Betty was a beacon of unconditional love and unwavering dedication to her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Family was of utmost importance to Betty. Sharing meals and holidays together brought her family closer, fostering bonds and creating cherished memories.

Betty was preceded in death by her loving husband, Coach Leon Sharp; beloved son, James (Jimmy) G. Sharp; parents, James Dean and Bessie Shown Dean; sisters, Dora Hill, Deloris Dean, Edna Russell, Flora Dean and Joy Smith; brothers, Jim Dean, Julius Dean and Fred Dean. She is survived by her sister, Connie Hodge; brother, Roy Dean; children, Jana (Wendell Skipper) Sharp of Sebring, Florida; Molly (Terry Harrison) Doggett of Wauchula, Florida; Mary Jane (Carl) Sisum of Wauchula, Florida; and, John (Stacy) Sharp of Bowling Green, Florida; daughter-in-law, Maria Sharp of San Diego, California; grandchildren, Keith (Christina) Nadaskay, Aaron (Rebecca) Nadaskay, Jeremy Nadaskay, Joshua Sharp, Caleb Sharp, Dustin Doggett, Cassie (John) Haney, Jessie Carte, Summer (Cody) Williams, Gavin Sharp and Caroline Sharp; step-grandson Rafael (Nadja) Loaiza; great-grandchildren Liam Nadaskay, Jack Nadaskay, Caleb Nadaskay, Madelyn Nadaskay, Dugan Watson, Reagan Haney, Jace Carte, Raelynn Carte, Joseph Williams, Kendall Williams, and Travis Williams; step-great-grandson, Noel Loaiza.

Betty was not only a loving wife but also a dedicated mother who poured her heart into raising her five beloved children. Her nurturing spirit, wisdom, and unwavering support were a source of inspiration to her five children, 11 grandchildren, and 11 great-grandchildren who continue to carry forward her values and legacy. Her warmth, love, and guidance will forever be etched in their hearts. She leaves behind a legacy of love that will continue to inspire and uplift us in the days ahead. The family would like to thank all of Betty's friends that have loved and supported her over the years. Visitation will be on Saturday, October 7th from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. at Ponger-Kays-Grady Funeral Home with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 a.m., burial will be immediately after with Pastor Scott Waldron officiating.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Hardee Athletic Foundation and Vitas Healthcare of Wauchula, Florida