Wednesday, October 14, 2026
By Submitted Story on September 15, 2026
Harry Kolbjorn Schiavone, Sr., age 88, of Kitty Hawk, North Carolina, formerly of Northern Virginia, died on August 11, 2026.
Born in Washington, D.C., in 1938 to Harry Rocco and Elise Schiavone, Harry built a successful career in insurance and financial services. Naturally outgoing and genuinely interested in people, he generously shared his experience, mentoring many young professionals and taking great pleasure in their success. Colleagues often became lifelong friends.
Harry married Sandra Toussaint in 1961. Together they raised two sons and shared 43 years of marriage. After living for more than four decades in Northern Virginia, they made Nags Head their home.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Sandra Toussaint Schiavone, in 2004.
Harry later built a loving life with Sharon French, his devoted partner and companion of 21 years. Sharon and her family became an important part of his life, and her grandchildren lovingly knew him as Papa Harry.
Harry’s passion for fishing, hunting, and golf made the Outer Banks an ideal home. He enjoyed the friendships and stories surrounding a day on the water or a round of golf as much as the catch or the score. An avid sportsman, when he could no longer participate himself, he became his grandchildren’s greatest fan, cheering them on in their various sports endeavors—soccer, football, swimming, golf, baseball, and even marching band. He supported the Outer Banks community and treasured the many friendships he made there.
Harry is survived by his longtime partner, Sharon French; his sons, Harry Jr. and his wife, Janet; Scott Schiavone and his wife, Sue; his granddaughters, Peri and Page; as well as his brother, Joseph Schiavone and his wife, Mary. Papa Harry was also beloved by Sharon’s children Dana, Chris, Jeff, Tina, and Molly, as well as has her grandchildren.
Please come enjoy some of Harry’s favorite foods and share stories with his friends and family from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., on October 24, 2026, in the event room located upstairs at Jennette’s Pier.
Twiford Funeral Homes, Outer Banks, 500 Budleigh Street, Manteo, NC, is honored to assist the Schiavone family. Condolences and memories may be shared on Harry’s obituary page at www.TwifordFH.com.
