James Earl Sharp

James Earl Sharp of Saginaw, Michigan 

Beloved husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend passed away unexpectedly at his home on Sunday, March 2, 2025. He was 58 years old. James Earl Sharp was born on February 17, 1967, in Waco, Texas, to the late Ronald Freeman and Etta Gladys (Andrus) Sharp. He attended Bridgeport High School. He met the love of his life, Debra Kay (Henderson) Young) 34 years ago through a friend. They began dating, fell in love, and were united in married May 7, 1992, in Saginaw, Michigan, celebrating 33 wonderful years together; she survives him. His greatest calling in life was to be a loving and devoted husband, father, and grandfather. James was a faithful member of Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church and St. Dominic Parish, Ss. Peter & Paul Catholic Church. He was employed as the kitchen manager for the Texan Restaurant in Saginaw, but also assisted in operations at their Bay City, Midland, and Flint locations serving 20 years of loyal and dedicated service. James was an avid sports fan and loved watching WWE wrestling. He also enjoyed cheering for his favorite football teams, the Detroit Lions and the University of Michigan, as well as his favorite basketball team, Michigan State University. His little piece of heaven was spending time with his grandchildren, whether it was attending sporting events, participating in softball church leagues, running around the house inside or outside, or just talking, his grandchildren always made his heart feel full. He will forever be remembered for being a kind and loving soul, for the love and admiration he had for Debra, and for truly living an amazing life filled with many beautiful moments and special memories.

Surviving are his wife, Debra Kay Sharp of Saginaw; three children: Michael Young and his girlfriend, Crystal Adams of Saginaw; Kristina Young of Saginaw; Angela Young of Saginaw; Lamara Hollman, who was like a son; 12 grandchildren: Sianna Oliveros; Marciano Young; Stephon Jackson; Brooklynn Hollman; Mariah Young; Alya Young; Sean Jackson; Kaylee Hollman; Camron Reed-Young; Aubrie Hollman; Urijah Young; Zaden Young; two brothers: Charles Sharp of Ft. Myers, FL; Earl (Barbara) Sharp of Cadillac; and a special cousin, Michael Andrus. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Ronald F. and Etta G. Sharp. 

Honoring James’ wishes, cremation has taken place. A memorial liturgy will take place at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, at Christ the Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 2445 N. Charles Street, Saginaw, MI 48602. Rev. Fr. William Rutkowski will officiate. Burial will follow at Mt. Olivet Cemetery. Friends are welcome to visit with the family at the church from 9:00 a.m. until the time of Mass at 10:00 a.m. In lieu of flowers, those planning an expression of sympathy may wish to consider memorials to the Epilepsy Foundation. Please share your thoughts and memories with the family at the funeral home or through www.casefuneralhome.com.