By Ralphine Major

His list of accomplishments is absolutely amazing!  A 40-year career at Robertshaw Fultons in Knoxville, Tennessee.  In retirement, 12 years blacksmithing at the Museum of Appalachia in Norris, Tennessee, for his good friend, John Rice Irwin, founder of the museum.  A veteran of World War II.  Member of Clapp’s Chapel United Methodist Church where he and Rusty Carpenter helped start Boy Scout Troop 500 which is still active decades later.  Gibbs Ruritan Club member.  Clayton Sharp and his late wife, Betty Loy Sharp who passed away in October 2019, first appeared in “Volunteers of Time and Talent” (Focus 9-10-12) when they were nominated by Dale Hall for Covenant Health’s Senior Stars Award recognizing their many years of volunteer service.  With such a long and remarkable life, Clayton Sharp is still going strong!  But, two years ago he suffered a setback in his health.

“He came so very close to death when he suffered a heart attack,” Dale Hall said.  “His road to recovery was many months and included having to learn to walk again with a walker.  He is just unbelievable in his strength.”  Dale is a long-time friend of the Sharp family.

Clayton is now 98 years old and claims to be a “22 model,” having been born in 1922!  The life-long resident of Gibbs Community is an inspiration to those who know him.  His remarkable life of service to others is a “2020 model” we can all strive to be like!

Words of Faith: “My son, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in your heart, for they will prolong your life many years . . . .” (Proverbs 3:1-2 NIV).