Help Support the Family of William Sharp

On January 26, 2025, William Sharp suffered a major cardiac event and passed away unexpectedly during a JT Swing Teams DC practice. Team members performed CPR until the paramedics arrived. The paramedics tried to resuscitate him for an additional 30 minutes. Unfortunately, they were not able to save him.

William dedicated more than 40 years to public service working in Public Affairs for the United States Air Force and later as a civilian for the U.S. Army. He was the recipient of numerous high-level military service awards and commendations including the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Civilian Service Achievement Medal, and Star of the Quarter at the Army Office Chief of Public Affairs. Among the honors he was most proud of were the Department of Defense Thomas Jefferson Award for magazine editing and the U.S. Air Forces in Europe Photojournalist of the Year Award.

Beyond his professional life, William had a deep love for music and martial arts. He played guitar in the worship band at Woodbridge Nazarene Church and was a dedicated black belt and teacher at Spotsylvania Karate Soo Bahk Do Moo Duk Kwan.

William also found joy in dance. A beloved member of the DMV West Coast Swing Dance community, William was known for always being so warm and welcoming. For many years, William danced the International West Coast Swing Flashmob with local DC dancers. He also took lovely photos and videos of the events. Most recently, he was a member of JT Swing Teams DC. William loved the team and the routine he was preparing to debut. Team members will always remember him for his kindness, enthusiasm, encouragement of others, hard work, and that smile.

William leaves behind his wife, Melissa Lynn Miller Sharp; daughters, Samantha Alexandra Sharp and Seanna Christine Sharp; and stepsons, Michael Allen Fontaine and Matthew Ryan Fontaine. His loss has created not only a deep emotional void but also an immediate financial strain.

Why We Need Your Support:

William was the primary provider for their household, and his passing leaves Melissa facing significant financial uncertainty. Their family relied on his income, and devastatingly, his life insurance had recently expired, leaving no financial safety net. Additionally, their savings had been drained to pay an unexpected tax bill, further compounding the financial burden. At the time of his passing, William was exploring taking on a second job to pay the remainder of the tax bill and rebuild for the future.

Funds raised will go toward:

Income replacement – Helping Melissa cover immediate living expenses as she adjusts to life without William’s financial support.

Time to grieve – Allowing Melissa the space to process this loss without the immediate pressure of returning to work.

Financial stability and tax resolution – Providing Melissa with the resources to navigate household finances, assess outstanding obligations, and determine the remaining tax burden, ensuring a more secure path forward.

How You Can Help:

Any amount you give will make a difference. If you’re unable to give, please consider sharing this fundraiser with your friends and family. Most of all, we appreciate your prayers, love, and support during this heartbreaking time.