Obituary of Bernadette Sharkey

GREENVILLE – Bernadette Ann Sharkey, 66, passed away on Sunday, January 12, 2025, at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital with her children by her side.

Born in Albany on May 10, 1958, Bernadette was the daughter of the late William and Dorothea (McTague) Quackenbush, and wife of the late Francis M. “Frank” Sharkey, who passed away on April 11, 2024. She grew up in Greenville and graduated from Greenville High School. Over the course of 30 years, Bernadette owned and operated Humpty Dumpty Nursery School, a job she loved deeply. Her gentle patience and nurturing spirit impacted countless young lives, and she continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many former students. Bernadette had a rare gift for connecting with children, guiding them with care and dedication as they began their educational journey.

A lifelong member of St. John the Baptist Church in Greenville, Bernadette served as a Eucharistic minister, finding strength in her faith. She cherished time spent with her family, particularly with her grandchildren. She was a proud and vocal supporter at their sporting events, always cheering them on from the sidelines. Above all, Bernadette devoted herself to her family’s happiness and success, ensuring they were loved and supported in all their endeavors.

Bernadette is survived by her five children: Matthew (Morgan Storms) Sharkey, Erin Sharkey, Sarah (Keith) Lochner, Daniel (Stephanie) Sharkey, and Christopher Sharkey; five grandchildren: Aidan, Gavin, Addison, Christopher, and Ryan; her siblings: William (Kathleen) Quackenbush, Michael (Marilyn) Quackenbush, Mary (Donald) Keyes, Daniel Quackenbush, Judith (Thomas) Riescher, Mark (LuAnn) Quackenbush; and many beloved nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers Edward (Patricia) Quackenbush, Joseph Quackenbush, and Matthew Quackenbush.

Calling hours will be held on Friday, January 17, from 4 to 7 p.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. A Memorial Mass will be celebrated on Saturday, January 18, at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church, 4987 State Route 81, Greenville, followed by the burial of her ashes in Greenville Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Bernadette’s honor can be made to the Lung Transplant Foundation at https://lungtransplantfoundation.org/.

Condolences may be left at ajcunninghamfh.com.