Jeannine Louise Butler Sharkey

Jeannine Louise Butler Sharkey passed away peacefully at her home surrounded by family on Aug. 16, 2020. She had recently turned 89 years old.

Jeannine was born in Chicago, Illinois on Aug. 10, 1931. She is predeceased by her devoted husband, John Thomas Sharkey Sr. The two met as teenagers and were married Aug. 12, 1949. They spent 67 years together, building a wonderful life and traveling the world. She supported John as he grew a successful business, World Wide Manufacturing Co., which still operates today as a family-run company in Dawsonville.

Jeannine was so proud of her family, and she lived a full life as a beloved mother, grandma and GiGi, as she was known by her eight great-grandchildren. The family enjoyed holidays at Lake Lanier and beach trips to St. George Island.

Jeannine was also a talented watercolor artist. Her pieces were exhibited locally and nationally in juried shows sponsored by groups including Georgia Watercolor Society, Artists Atelier of Atlanta, the Atlanta Artist Center and Abstein Gallery.

She will always be remembered by her family and friends as a creative, adventurous and loving person. She was an important woman in so many lives and will be greatly missed.

Jeannine is survived by her sister, Charmaine Strong, and two brothers, Steve Butler and Jeff Butler.

Jeannine is survived by her daughter Karen Wenk, her husband Ron Wenk and their three children: Colleen Harrison, Sarah Henry and Amy Wenk. She's survived by her son John Thomas Sharkey Jr., his wife Barbara Sharkey and their two children: Keenan Sardone and Joseph Sharkey. She's survived by her daughter Julie Johnson, her husband Darrell Johnson and their four children: Trevor Johnson, Jacob Johnson, Colton Johnson and Avery Johnson.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. As part of her final wishes, Jeannine and her husband's ashes will be spread together in the mountains. In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations to Jeannine's favorite charity, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.