William A Sharman, a lifelong resident of Briarcliff Manor, NY, passed away April 18, 2015 at the age of 88. Bill made a unique contribution to the community. His profound devotion shaped and effected the lives of those around him. At 17, having graduated in his junior year from Briarcliff HS, Bill enlisted in the Army Reserve Program while attending Princeton University. He later transferred to the Army Air Corps and served as an aerial engineer on B-26 bombers. Bill spent one semester at Hamilton College and then finished his Bachelor of Architecture at Cornell University. While at Cornell he was a member of the Delta Upsilon Fraternity. He met the love of his life and future wife, Audrey Rossman, who predeceased him in 2006.
Associated with Architectural firms in NYC and White Plains, Bill then opened his own practice in Briarcliff Manor in 1965. He designed apartment buildings, new houses, stores and office buildings as well as remodeling, renovating and expanding existing homes in both NY and CT. He was the architect for the project when the Briarcliff Library was moved into the old railroad station in 1959.
Bill’s longest community connection was with the Briarcliff Congregational Church. Bill served on numerous church boards and committees and was a member of the church choir. His life in the church and in the community have been a testament of his faith. Bill joined the Briarcliff Fire Department at the age of 16 and was a member for 72 years, became a member of the Fire Police and served as Captain in 2000. He also served the Fire Company as President, Vice President and Lieutenant. In 2001 he was selected Grand Marshall of the Department’s centennial parade.
In 2003 Bill was inducted into the Briarcliff High School Hall of Distinguished Alumni, and in 2006 was elected to the Westchester County Senior Citizen Hall of Fame. Bill participated in many other areas of Briarcliff life. He attained a Life Scout rank in Troop 18 and later became a troop leader. He was on the committee which organized the Village’s 75th anniversary celebration; the Briarcliff Manor Scarborough Society grew out of this observance. Bill served as the first president of the society where he continued to be an active member.
Other local service included school district committees, President of the Briarcliff Little League and the Tommy Fund. His life offered an important model for the young people of today. He exemplified a person who had found happiness in family, faith, creative work and service to the community.
Bill Sharman is survived by two daughters, Karen Sharman and Leslie Peterson, two grandchildren, Sara and Matt and three great-grandchildren Kieran, Shealynn and Micah. Contributions may be sent to the Briarcliff Congregational Church, the Briarcliff Manor Fire Department, or a charity of choice. A Memorial Service will be held at the Briarcliff Congregational Church, 30 S. State Road, on Saturday, May 2nd, at 11:00 am. John G. Crawford Funeral Director. 914.747.2515.