DR. ANTHONY EARL SHARP I

Dr. Anthony Earl Sharp, Sr., Presiding President of the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America, entered into eternal rest on June 24, 2026, at the age of 72. His extraordinary life of faithfulness, service, and visionary leadership leaves a profound legacy in the church and the countless communities he so compassionately served.

Born on April 17, 1954, Dr. Sharp demonstrated from an early age a deep calling to ministry and Christian education. He pursued this calling with unwavering dedication, earning his Bachelor of Arts degree in Religion from Bishop College in Dallas, Texas, in 1979, with a concentration in Christian Education and Philosophy. He later continued his theological training at Brite Divinity School at Texas Christian University, completing a Master of Divinity degree in 1984. These formative years laid the foundation for what would become a lifelong journey of spiritual leadership and educational excellence.

Dr. Sharp’s ministry, spanning more than four decades, was marked by a passionate commitment to preaching the Gospel, strengthening churches, nurturing Christian leaders, and advancing Christ’s mission through local congregations, state conventions, and the wider national Baptist fellowship. His efforts reached into every corner of church life and leadership, earning him the trust and admiration of colleagues, congregants, and the broader faith community alike.

A visionary pastor and church planter, Dr. Sharp organized Tabernacle of Praise Missionary Baptist Church on November 13, 1994. Under his dynamic direction, the church quickly thrived, growing to over 400 members and becoming a vital beacon of spiritual enrichment, community service, and biblical teaching in Dallas, Texas. His pastoral heart and forward-thinking spirit transformed not only the church but the wider community.

Dr. Sharp’s impact extended far beyond his local congregation. He gave tireless service as Advisor to the National President of the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America from 2006 to 2012 and held the office of Vice President of Auxiliaries for six years. For twelve years, he presided as Moderator of the Fellowship District Association, and he further contributed as Third Vice President of the Missionary Baptist General Convention of Texas. Through each of these leadership roles, he exemplified wise stewardship and selfless commitment to the larger Missionary Baptist family.

Recognizing the importance of equipping future generations, Dr. Sharp dedicated twenty-seven years as an instructor for the Deacons Ministry at the National Sunday School and BTU Congress. His influence as a teacher, lecturer, and ministry strategist led him to conduct workshops and seminars across the country, where he fostered growth, empowered leaders, and modeled the principles of servant leadership. Colleagues across denominational lines respected his wisdom, humility, and unwavering passion for discipleship.

His remarkable service did not go unnoticed. In 1998, Dr. Sharp was honored as Pastor of the Year and Tabernacle of Praise Missionary Baptist Church was named Church of the Year by Elite News. He was inducted into the Elite News Religious Hall of Fame in 2003, and in 2009, Paul Quinn College awarded him an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity in tribute to his exceptional leadership and impact. Dr. Sharp was also a proud member of the historic “Bishop Five,” a distinguished group whose fundraising efforts contributed more than two million dollars in support of Paul Quinn College, reaffirming his enduring commitment to education and institutional advancement.

As Presiding President of the National Missionary Baptist Convention of America, Dr. Sharp guided the denomination through pivotal times—championing unity, spiritual renewal, Christian education, and the ongoing relevance of the Black Church in addressing the needs of communities nationwide. He led with grace, integrity, and a profound commitment to upholding the rich traditions and practices of his faith.

Beyond his professional and ministerial achievements, those who knew Dr. Sharp best remember him first as a devoted husband, cherished father, steadfast pastor, trusted mentor, and faithful friend. He shared a loving marriage with Mrs. Janice Wilson Sharp since February 28, 1981, building a home and life that reflected their shared devotion to faith and service. Dr. Sharp took special pride in his role as father to Anthony E. Sharp II, finding joy and fulfillment in his family above all.

The legacy of Dr. Anthony E. Sharp, Sr. is etched in the lives of the pastors he mentored, the congregations he guided, and the many he uplifted through the message of hope and salvation. Though his earthly voice has grown quiet, the light of his faith continues to shine through those touched by his ministry, ensuring his memory and example will inspire generations to come.

To honor his remarkable life, a Viewing will be held on Wednesday, July 1, 2026, from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Tabernacle of Praise Missionary Baptist Church, 6925 Wofford Avenue, Dallas, TX 75227. A Twilight Service is scheduled for Thursday, July 2, 2026, at 6:00 PM at Antioch Fellowship Missionary Baptist Church, 7550 South Hampton Road, Dallas, TX 75232. The Celebration of Life will take place on Friday, July 3, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Friendship West Baptist Church, 2020 W Wheatland Road, Dallas, TX 75232.

“Dr. Anthony E. Sharp, Sr. has exchanged labor for reward, service for rest, and faith for sight. Though he will be deeply missed, his legacy remains etched in the hearts of all who were blessed to know him and to benefit from his extraordinary ministry. May his memory be a blessing, his legacy an inspiration, and his faithfulness a model for generations yet to come.”

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant… enter thou into the joy of thy Lord.” — Matthew 25:23