Billy Escar Tharp was born on January 24, 1936, in Akron, Ohio, to Escar and Lockie Tharp. He was the fourth child in his family and a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and friend.

Bill passed away peacefully at his home on Hurricane Creek in Linden, Tennessee, on May 13, 2025. He was 89 years old.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 69 years, Doris Jane Snyder Tharp; three children, Billy (Patty) Tharp, Larry Tharp (Kim), and Sandra Tharp Thompson (David); and six grandchildren: Jennifer Tharp, Eric (Olivia) Tharp, Shelby (Brian) Owens, Holly (Josh) Fehn, and Jacob (Mary) Thompson. He had eight great-grandchildren: Emma Tharp, Reid Owens, Pike Fehn, Addison Tharp, Holt Owens, Billy Thompson, Rush Fehn, and Hunter Thompson. Bill was lovingly known as “Papaw” to them all.

He is also survived by his sister Evelyn Tharp Curtis and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his granddaughter Lisa Marie Tharp; his siblings Telford Tharp, James Tharp, Betty Sue Ellzey, Jewel Tharp, and Loyce Lynch Barber; and his parents, Escar and Lockie Tharp, and Maude Tharp.

Honorary pallbearers include Michael Krutz, Richie Niles, Stephen Krutz, Michael Tharp, Richard Stewart, Robert Stewart, and Keith Fodness.

Strong in character and steady in strength, Bill faced the final chapter of his life with quiet determination, faith, and a deep love for God. He found joy in the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing, and was happiest with a fishing rod, rifle, or stories to share. Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him. He had such love for his family, friends, and his church.

A celebration of his life will be held on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at The Sanctuary United Pentecostal Church in Hohenwald, Tennessee. Visitation will begin at 12:00 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Ceremony at 2:00 p.m.