Howard Sharp

HOWARD SHARP - Howard Lafayette Sharp, Jr., 90, of Columbus, Mississippi, passed away peacefully on Monday, December 15, at Baptist Memorial Hospital. A graveside service will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025, at 3:00 p.m. at Friendship Cemetery, with Rev. Glenn Miller officiating and Rev. Dr. Vaughn Stafford assisting. A Celebration of Life will follow immediately afterward at the Altmyer Barn. 

Howard was born on December 3, 1935, in Columbus, Mississippi, to the late Howard Lafayette Sharp, Sr. and Evelyn Stoney Sharp. He graduated from S.D. Lee High School and began his college education at Mississippi State University. His studies were soon interrupted when he was called to serve his country in the United States Army during the Korean War. After proudly completing his military service, Howard returned home and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Mississippi State University. Howard devoted more than 50 years of his life to the family business, Sharp’s Sporting Goods and Marine, working alongside his father and brother. Later, he renamed the business Hook and Bullet. Both businesses were far more than a sporting goods store - they were a gathering place and second home for sportsmen throughout the Golden Triangle community. For generations, it was where stories were shared, friendships were formed, and knowledge was passed down. Known by many as an authority on all things shooting, reloading, hunting, and fishing, Howard was an avid outdoorsman and true woodsman. He loved nothing more than sharing what he knew, patiently teaching countless people how to hunt and fish, how to respect wildlife, and how to care for the land. A man of immense physical strength and an even greater heart, Howard leaves behind a legacy defined by service, adventure, and an encyclopedic mind - one that was always eager to teach, tell a story, or answer a question. He always made time for others and was looked upon as a second father by many young men over the years. Howard rarely went hunting or fishing alone; if someone wanted to learn, he made sure they had a place beside him. A true pioneer, he earned his place in local sporting history as the first person to harvest a deer with a bow and arrow in Lowndes County. Whether deep in the woods, out on the water, or sitting at a table sharing his vast store of knowledge, Howard was always at peace. Howard’s faith was the compass of his life. He was a devoted member of Saint Paul’s Episcopal Church, where he faithfully served as a Vestryman and Senior Warden. In his later years, he also cherished the fellowship and community of the First United Methodist Church of Columbus. Howard found great joy in giving back to others. He was a longtime volunteer at Camp Rising Sun, where he spent many years sharing special moments with children. He was known by the campers as "The Fisherman". He looked forward to helping the campers catch as many fish as they could and making special memories for them. He was also a supporter of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, believing deeply in helping children and families facing difficult journeys. He served on the Board of Directors at Heritage Academy and could always be found volunteering to help wherever there was a need. Howard remained a proud and loyal supporter of the Heritage Patriots for many years, especially as his grandchildren attended and continue to attend the school. He was also a long standing board member for Magowah Gun Club, a member of the Krewe of Didelphidie, and a dedicated Hunter Education Instructor. 

Howard was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife of 49 years, Juliaette Wise Sharp; and his brother, Buford Stoney Sharp. He later found happiness with his wife, Betty Clyde Sharp, and is survived by her; his daughter, Lea Sharp; his son, Louis Sharp (Amy); and his precious grandchildren, Lores, Lucy, and Laura Lea. He is also survived by his stepsons, Clyde Hutchinson (Angie) and Douglas Hutchinson; his sisters, Lillian Easom and Patsy Marshall (Jack) both of Brandon, MS; and many nieces and nephews. Honorary Pallbearers will include men with whom he shared many years of hunting, sporting adventures, and deep friendships. Several of them were like sons to him, and all were an important part of his life: Bubba Wolford, Colonel Thomas McCann, Will Hardy, Buzz Soule, Stephen Sanders, Bob Wolford, Russell Freeman, Mendy Mendoza, Keith Savely, MajGen Thomas "Tango" Moore, Jr, Clyde Hutchinson, Douglas Hutchinson, and members of the Riverhill Peckerwood Club: Billy Phillips, B.A. Atkins, Bud Phillips, and Lee Sanders. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Camp Rising Sun, PO Box 8241, Columbus, Mississippi 39705.