Michael Sharpe inspired others to become more

THE EDITOR, Madam:

THE CALABAR Old Boys’ Association registers its heartfelt sympathy to the family, friends and colleagues of our esteemed alumnus Michael Sharpe on his passing on April 20.

The professional journey of this veteran broadcaster and elder statesman of journalism is an eloquent testament to the fact that his life inspired others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more.

He joined the staff of the RJR Gleaner Communications Group in 1983, but before that he did stints at the defunct Jamaica Broadcasting Corporation and the Jamaica Information Service.

His glittering career and the accompanying respect which attended it, was made possible by the unalloyed dedication and passion which he brought to his craft. It manifested itself in his versatility in the different aspects of media – television news presenter, radio talk-show host, parliamentary reporter, road traffic reporter and music programme presenter. In addition to service in the media, he played an integral role in shaping the lives of aspiring journalists in his seven-year stint as an adjunct instructor in the Department of Communication Studies at the Northern Caribbean University.

He was also a member of the Jamaica Constabulary Force, where he served with distinction from March 1997 until the time of his death. Between 1997 and 2012, he was attached to the St Andrew Central Division and then assigned to the Community Safety and Security Branch.

He created news programmes such as the iconic Inside Gordon House and Sharp Talk; and the annals of journalism will record with pride his distinguished contribution to historic assignments such as the coverage of the invasion of Grenada by the Americans i n 1983, and the attempted coup led by the Jamaat al Muslimeen in July 1990 against the ANR Robinson-led administration in Trinidad and Tobago.

His life spoke poignantly to the time honoured song of his beloved school.

Sworn to be renowned and famous

For the honour of the school

True as steel, in his zeal

For the honour of the school.

There is no gainsaying that his redoubtable career in the media, which spanned over 40 years, has brought unadulterated pride and joy to his alma mater.

This media doyen has demitted all earthly roles, and as we solemnly watch the recession of his mortal remains, we are comforted by the fact that the hue-filled tapestry woven by him over the six and one-half decades that he occupied this sphere will outlive the current sorrow occasioned by his passing.

Lord, in your mercy, grant your beloved son Michael a safe lodging and a holy rest, and peace at last.

DAVID MILLER

President

Calabar Old Boys’ Association