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Thomas F. “Tom” Sharkey, 84, spent many years boating on Lake George

ST. JAMES — Thomas F. Sharkey, 84, of St. James, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, Oct. 18, 2016.

Tom was born Oct. 30, 1931, in Philadelphia, the son of the late Thomas and Rebecca (Porter) Sharkey. He was raised in South Philadelphia, giving him his roots.

Following a stint in the US Army, he attended St. Joseph’s College and studied labor relations. He held many significant leadership roles in the United Electrical Workers Union and AFSCME. From there he went on to serve as Director of Human Resources for the New York State Office of Mental Health and later was an accomplished labor arbitrator.

Tom was dedicated to fairness and justice for all in the work place. He retired at age 76 when he and his wife Linda moved to the San Francisco Bay area. Recently, Tom and Linda moved back to the east coast settling happily in St. James, Southport, North Carolina.

Tom loved life and touched the hearts of many he met. Often he could be seen driving his 76 El Dorado with the top down, a straw hat and smoking a cigar with Lily, his dog, in the front seat. An avid boater, Tom spent many years boating on Lake George, the Long Island Sound and the San Francisco Bay. Most recently his days were spent enjoying the slower pace of life in the South – golfing, boating and having fun with friends, old and new.

Tom is survived by his loving wife Linda Sharkey; two sons, Thomas F. Sharkey and wife Theresa, Matthew Sharkey and wife Maria; four loving grandchildren, of whom he was so proud, Kaitlyn Murrin – Sharkey and wife Chrissy, Christopher Sharkey, Michael Sharkey, and Marina Sharkey; and a sister, Marie “Honey” Sharkey and husband Tom Polson.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, Oct. 23, from 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral Service Chapel, 1411 N. Howe St. Southport, North Carolina. The family will receive friends from 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the funeral home.

Online condolences may be made at Peacock – Newnam & White Funeral Home and Cremation Service.

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