Gerald Alvin Bogan, affectionately known to family and friends as "Sharp Top," was born on February 23, 1954, to the late James Bogan, Sr., and Emma L. Bogan Williams (née McNish) in Tampa, Florida. He was born, raised, and educated in the city of Tampa, which he proudly called home. Sharp Top was cherished for his vibrant spirit and unforgettable presence. He enjoyed spending time with the people he loved most, and his smooth, sharp wit could warm the coldest room. His effervescent personality could bring life to any gathering—turning silence into laughter and any quiet space into a celebration. To know him was to delight in his company.

Gerald was preceded in death by his parents, James Bogan, Sr. and Emma McNish Bogan-Williams; grandparents, Benjamin and Queen McNish-Louis; grandparents Moses Bogan and Louise Bogan; siblings, James, Jr., Joseph, Russell, Willie, George, Henry, Frank Bogan, Gloria, Geraldine Bogan, and Hazel Bogan Leath.

He leaves to cherish his memories to; sister, Evangelist Betty A. Bogan-Viverette (late Edward); nieces, Charlene D. Viverette, Sherria Lewis (Ronald), Jacqueline Franklin, Shante Dumas, Eboni Bogan, and Anita Riley (Michael); nephews, Henry Bogan, Jr., Willie Leath, Robert Guia, Jr. (Trina), Earl McKinley, Jr., Javon Traveon, Daniel Bogan, and Anthony Leath; cousin, Eddie Mitchell (Harry), along with a host of loving family and friends who will forever hold his memory in their hearts.