John Gerard Sharkey
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Published in Legacy.com on January 7, 2026
John Gerard Sharkey, 70, of Beverly, passed away on Sunday, January 4th, after a relentless battle with ALS, surrounded by his loving family.
John faced his illness with determination and resolve, firmly believing in science and holding out hope for a cure. He was a committed member of the Silence ALS study and proudly supported pioneering research at Columbia University.
Born in Lynn on December 28th, 1955, John was the son of the late William Patrick and Mary Maureen (Conneely) Sharkey. He graduated from Lynn Technical High School in 1974, where he learned automotive skills that would shape his career. He spent decades as a BMW mechanic and commercial fisherman, becoming the person everyone called when something needed fixing, evaluating, or a trusted second opinion.
John loved the ocean and was happiest on the water; fishing, searching for bait, debating depth, and who would catch the first fish of the day. An early riser, he loved watching the sun come up over the water. In the colder months, he enjoyed trips to North Conway or Florida, often with his siblings, or traveling to wherever his daughters happened to be living.
Confident and quick with a one-liner, John was always surrounded by people. He had a big heart, a soft spot for babies, and no problem admitting that his truck’s CD player featured Celine Dion’s Falling Into You for nearly a decade.
John is survived by the love of his life and wife of 43 years, Mary Ellen (Kurkul) Sharkey; his daughters, Paula Thomson and her husband Stephen of Beverly, and Julie Sharkey and her husband Brian Poulin of Jamestown, RI; and his cherished grandchildren, Johnny (6) and Margaret (2). He is also survived by his siblings, twin brother Joe Sharkey (Keli); Mary DeVeau (Peter); Kathy Perrotta (Deacon); Eileen Sharkey-Gisonno (Doug),;and Liz Osbahr (Bill); along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends.
John is undoubtedly keeping watch; making sure the lawn lines are straight, the weather is accounted for, and that no one forgets to appreciate the view.
His Funeral Mass will be celebrated at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church,253 Cabot St., Beverly, on Monday, January 12th, at 11:00 a.m. Relatives and friends are invited to attend. Visiting hours at Campbell Funeral Home,525 Cabot Street, Beverly, on Sunday, January 11th, from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Compassionate Care ALS. Information, directions, condolences at www.campbellfuneral.com.
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