Dudley C. Sharp Jr. ’52

Dudley Sharp died of cancer in Houston May 14, 2003. He was one of the best known and well-liked students in the class of 1952.

He started things off during freshman week with an attempt to steal the clapper, which failed when the wrench slipped and struck a loud, single note on Nassau Hall's bell a little after 3 a.m. His zest for friendship and good times is remembered to this day by Hamilton Hall entrymates, members of his Ivy Club section, the "Southern Caucus," and many others.

Upon his departure in 1950, he entered the U. of Texas, where he completed courses in history and government. He began a business career working in the oil fields of West Texas, then joined Mission Manufacturing Co., the Houston-based oilfield supply firm founded by his father and uncle in 1925. Following its sale, he continued his family's entrepreneurial tradition by investing successfully in real estate in Texas and Oklahoma.

During his final battle with cancer, which he met with courage and characteristic humor, he was visited every day by friends and was at home with his family at the end. The class sends its love to Kay, his wife of 38 years, his sister, Judy, and his children.

The Class of 1952