Jeffrey Sharp
January 1956 – March 9, 2024
Jeffrey Sharp, a lifelong aviator whose career spanned decades and continents, passed away peacefully on March 9th, 2024, following a courageous two-year battle with cancer.
Born in January 1956, Jeff grew up in Upper Arlington, Ohio, where his passion for flight took root at an early age. A remarkable testament to his dedication, he earned his private pilot license while still a 10th grader at Upper Arlington High School. His pursuit of aviation continued at Ohio State University, where he balanced his studies with work at EC Aviation, steadily accumulating flight ratings along the way.
After graduating, Jeff embarked on a professional flying career that first took him to several local companies before landing a coveted position at Bank One in Columbus. His trajectory then led him to northern Ohio, where he piloted a Gulfstream for Figgie International, a role that afforded him the opportunity to travel the world.
When Figgie’s flight department closed, Jeff’s skill and reputation led him to an exciting opportunity with the Cleveland Cavaliers. Hired as their chief pilot, he oversaw the acquisition and operation of their BAC-111 aircraft, a role he held for several years.
Seeking new horizons, Jeff transitioned to Las Vegas, initially flying a BAC-111 for Hilton Hotels before ascending to the position of Executive Director of their flight department. This department eventually evolved into Caesars Entertainment, boasting an impressive fleet of aircraft under Jeff’s leadership. It was also in Las Vegas that Jeff met his beloved wife, Eleanor.
Jeff’s final professional chapter saw him continue to pilot Gulfstreams and Falcons for various companies, culminating in his role as Director of Aviation at LAS Pilot Group.
Jeff Sharp’s life was one defined by his passion for aviation, his unwavering dedication to his profession, and the deep connections he forged along the way. He will be dearly missed by his wife, Eleanor, his family, friends, and the countless colleagues whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable career.