Carole L. Sharp, age 83, of Mill Creek, Indiana, passed away peacefully on Friday, October 30, 2026, surrounded by the love and comfort of her devoted family.
Carole was born on January 9, 1943, in Macon, Georgia, to the late Elude and Betty (Rinehart) Fisher. She was a 1961 graduate of La Porte High School. While working at Whirlpool Corporation in La Porte, Carole met a young man named Thomas Sharp, never imagining that their meeting would be the beginning of a beautiful love story spanning more than six decades. On May 4, 1963, the two were united in marriage at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Fish Lake, Indiana. Together, they built a wonderful life centered on love, family, faith, and countless cherished memories.
Above all else, Carole's greatest joy and proudest accomplishment was her family. As a devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, she poured her heart into creating a warm and welcoming home where love was abundant, laughter was shared, and no one ever left hungry. A wonderful cook and talented baker, Carole had a special gift for making people feel loved through the meals and treats she prepared. Her cookie jar was seemingly never empty, always filled with something delicious for anyone who stopped by. Although she enjoyed preparing all kinds of desserts, cookies were her specialty, and they became one of the many sweet traditions her family and friends will forever associate with her. To Carole, a full cookie jar was just another way of saying, "I love you."
Carole and Tom shared a love of adventure and treasured the many years they spent traveling together in their RV. Their journeys took them across the country, exploring new places, enjoying the open road, and making wonderful memories along the way. Among Carole's favorite destinations was Walt Disney World, a place that brought out her sense of wonder and joy. Whether traveling somewhere new or simply enjoying time together, Carole cherished the life she and Tom had built and the adventures they shared.
Nothing, however, could compare to the happiness Carole found in being a grandmother. She was immensely proud of her three granddaughters and especially loved cheering them on from the sidelines during their volleyball games. Her enthusiastic support, unmistakable voice, and unwavering pride made it clear that she was always one of their biggest fans. Carole was also an avid sports enthusiast who loved cheering on her beloved Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team and the Chicago Cubs. Whether spending fall Saturdays rooting for the Irish, enjoying a Cubs baseball game, or cheering on her granddaughters from the volleyball sidelines, Carole's enthusiasm, unwavering loyalty, and spirited personality were always on full display. Win or lose, she remained a devoted fan, never shy about sharing her opinions on how the game was being played. Being present for the moments that mattered to her family and enjoying the simple pleasures of life were things she held close to her heart.
Carole was a woman of remarkable intelligence, engaging conversation, and a personality that was entirely her own. Known for her candid nature and outspoken honesty, she was never one to leave anyone wondering what she thought. She spoke her mind freely, stood firmly in her convictions, and approached life with a refreshing sense of authenticity. Those who knew and loved Carole appreciated her quick wit, her lively conversations, and the unmistakable spirit that made her so memorable. Beneath her strong opinions was a heart deeply devoted to the people she loved.
Her Catholic faith was an important and enduring part of Carole's life. She was a lifelong member of St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church in Fish Lake, where she and Tom began their married life together. In earlier years, she was also an active member of the church's Rosary Sodality. Her faith provided a foundation throughout her life and remained a meaningful part of the values and traditions she shared with her family.
Left to cherish her memory are her beloved husband of 63 years, Thomas Sharp; her three children, Douglas (Jennifer) Sharp, Lisa Sharp, and Chris (Shelly) Sharp; her three treasured granddaughters, Emily Sharp, Ally (Kevin) Mitchell, and Avery Sharp; along with several nieces and nephews.
She was preceded in death by her parents; her son, Eric Sharp; brothers, Gary Fisher and Jeff Fisher; and step grandson, Joshua Theiss.
Family and friends are invited to gather for a visitation on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. at Haverstock Funeral Home and Cremation Services in La Porte. The Rosary will be recited at 6:30 p.m. during the visitation.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:00 a.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, at St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, 7732 State Road 4, Walkerton, Indiana 46574, with Father Michael Heimer officiating. Burial will immediately follow at Oak Grove Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Carole's memory to the American Brain Tumor Association, P.O. Box 719167, Chicago, IL 60677-9417.
Carole's life was a beautiful reflection of the things that mattered most to her: a marriage built on enduring love, a family she cherished beyond measure, a faith that guided her, and a home where everyone was welcome. She leaves behind a lifetime of precious memories, from adventures on the open road and spirited conversations to volleyball games filled with cheers and a kitchen filled with the irresistible aroma of freshly baked cookies. Though her voice will be deeply missed and her place at the family table can never truly be filled, the love she so generously gave will remain woven into the lives of those she leaves behind. And whenever her family reaches for a favorite cookie recipe, recalls one of her wonderfully candid remarks, or gathers together to share a story, a little piece of Carole will be there, reminding them that the sweetest things in life are the love and memories we leave behind.
