Edwin Ray "Ed" Tharpe Sr.

Edwin “Ed” Ray Tharpe, Sr. of Roaring River, North Carolina passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, August 14th, 2022 surrounded by his loving family.

Ed was born on August 4, 1942 to Ray Palmer and Mildred Lucille Pardue Tharpe in Wilkes County. After Ed graduated from East Wilkes High School in 1960, he began working for Chatham Manufacturing in Elkin, North Carolina. He later began working for Lowe’s Companies and retired after 30 years of service as Senior Director of Accounting Inventory in 1998.

Ed is predeceased by his parents, Ray Palmer and Mildred Lucille Pardue Tharpe.

He is survived by his loving wife, Mary Ann Elmore Tharpe of the home; One daughter Diana Tharpe Bell (Tim) of Roaring River; two sons Edwin “Eddie” Ray Tharpe, Jr. (Jody) of Wilkesboro and Michael “Todd” Tharpe (Melissa) of Roaring River. He is also survived by five grandchildren; Megan Bell Hayes (Ryan), Nathan Todd Bell (Kendra), Brittney Tharpe Meier (Jack), Ava York Tharpe, and Palmer Earl Tharpe; three great-grandchildren; Grant Samuel Hayes, Ever Grace, Addison Faith Meier. Other survivors include two sisters; Patricia Tharpe Shew (Bob) and Brenda Tharpe Cheek (Jerry).

Ed will be remembered by his family as being a loving husband, father and “Pa”. His family and community were blessed to learn many valuable lessons from him during his 80 years as well as receive from his generous and caring nature. Ed had a sensitive spirit, wonderful sense of humor, wise mind, and selfless soul. He leaves behind a wonderful legacy for his family and friends to value and treasure.

Along with his many attributes, he was a member of Roaring River Baptist Church, founding board member of Roaring River Ruritan Club, and board member of Roaring River Volunteer Fire Department.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held 2:00 PM Wednesday, August 17, 2022 at Reins-Sturdivant Chapel with Rev. Eddie Tharpe, Rev. Ryan Hayes and Rev. Roger Hensley officiating.  The family will receive friends from 11:45 to 1:45 prior to the service. Burial will follow at Roaring River Baptist Church Cemetery in Roaring River, North Carolina.

Flowers will be accepted and memorials may be made to Mountain Valley Hospice or the donor’s choice.

Online condolences may be made to www.reinssturdivant.com.