Sharon A. (Andrew) Cortese

On September 18, 2025, we said goodbye to Sharon Cortese.  Sharon Page Andrew was born on October 8, 1943 to John E. and Mildred P. (Plummer) Andrew in Wilmington, DE. 

Her mother said she would, “argue with Jesus himself” and her late husband, Joseph Cortese said she “should’ve been a litigator” – both were correct!  She was strong-willed, determined and lived life on her own terms.  She was fiercely loyal and dedicated to those she loved, especially her husband of 50 years, Joseph, who predeceased her and her amazing daughter, Kendra (and yes, her daughter wrote this and is confident that her mother would’ve described her as amazing!) 

Sharon was classy, with a sense of fashion, hair styled and perfectly applied makeup topped off with an always beautiful manicure!  She was so much more than that – intelligent with a witty and dry sense of humor, she was also kind and understanding.  She was an avid reader and loved music of all genres.  She was a talented knitter of 70+ years who crafted beautiful sweaters, scarves, blankets and hats and was often a resource to those with less experience to find and fix mistakes as well as offer tips!

Sharon and her husband, Joseph were the ultimate foodies!  After hours of combing through recipes, Sharon loved to plan a meal and Joe would perfectly execute it for their friends and family.  They really were the perfect pair!  Speaking of pairing, Sharon loved a good glass of wine and in later years, discovered her affection for single malt whisky!

In addition to her love of family, she adored her dogs!  Sharon was a lifelong dog parent and often preferred the company of her dogs over humans.  She is survived by her beloved 9 lb pup, Zoey and her grand-dogs, Peanut (16) and Islay (2).  She could often be found encouraging anyone who would listen to “adopt a dog!”

Sharon had a career – she worked for many years as a Credit Supervisor at Chase Manhattan Bank and in her later career at the Division of Unemployment.

A handful of words will never adequately describe what Sharon meant to those who loved her and she will be missed every day.  She was selective about whom she brought into her inner circle, but once you were in, you were rewarded with lively conversation and debate, wry and perhaps sarcastic observations, fantastic food (and wine) and an abundance of love. 

Funeral services will be private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in memory of Sharon may be made to Humane Animal Partners (humaneanimalpartners.org) or Renee’s Rescues (reneesrescues.org) to support dog and pet adoption.

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