Support the Dell Children's Blood and Cancer Center in Honor of Dr. James Sharp
James C. Sharp, Jr. (Jim) was born on October 4, 1936 and died at home surrounded by family on July 26, 2026. Jim was a doctor who flourished as a medical pioneer in Austin. He was also an avid gardener who especially loved roses. A father who loved his children and a man who loved the ocean and the beach especially Port Aransas, Texas where he and his family spent many happy times.
Jim first earned an undergraduate degree in History from Vanderbilt University and then a medical degree in 1963 from the University of Texas Medical Branch in Galveston and went on to become, for years, the only pediatric hematologist oncologist practicing in Austin.
He later was a founding member of ‘Specially for Children, a children’s specialty medical practice at Dell Children’s Hospital. His medical hero, 19th-century physician Sir William Osler (known as the father of modern medicine), was famous for an aphorism: Live one day at a time and don’t worry about yesterday or tomorrow. It was advice that Jim continually gave himself, his young cancer patients and their families. He believed in hope, and that hope became their hope, too.
Jim retired in 2008 and enjoyed living in the hill country of Central Texas for a number of years before settling in Buda, Texas close to family. Jim will always be remembered for prescribing hope, one day at a time and for the impact he had on countless families facing childhood cancer or blood disorders. Memorial service will be held August 13, 2026 at 3:30 pm at The Church of the Good Shepherd Episcopal, 3201 Windsor Road 78703. Memorial contributions in honor of Dr. Sharp will support the Dell Children’s Blood and Cancer Center.
You Make the Dell Children's Difference
At the forefront of the continued search for a cure, the Dell Children’s Blood and Cancer Center is a leading pediatric cancer care provider. The center offers state-of-the-art treatments, compassionate care, and unwavering support to children and their families navigating the complexities of cancer.
Dell Children’s relies on support from the community to ensure our doors stay open and that no child is ever turned away regardless of their family’s ability to pay. Approximately 69% of the patient services Dell Children’s provides supports children who are un- or under-insured. We could not provide the same level of world class care to every child without philanthropic support.