James Tharp

James Tharp of Monette peacefully passed away after years of failing health at the age of 64 with his family by his side, Saturday, Jan. 23, 2021.

On Sept. 30, 1978, James married Robin Billingsley, together they had children, Misty, Gene and Zac. His family was everything to him. He tried to give them everything they wanted.

As a young teen he lived with his pap-paw and mam-maw, Ike and Ruby Hall, who owned a trucking business. At the age of 14, Pap-Paw put him behind the steering wheel of a big truck and taught him how to drive. He drove a truck most of his life. James drove from coast to coast over a million miles accident free. He was very proud to be able to deliver the freight he was hauling. James always delivered no matter what kind of weather he had to drive in. He was not one that would park till the weather cleared. He was always the leader in a line of truckers. He was proud of the job he did and his family was proud of him.

James was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, son, brother and friend to many. He was the “bully” of the family, loved to pester those grandbabies and keep everyone on their toes. He was a very giving soul and worked hard to ensure his family had everything they dreamed of.

James is survived by his wife, Robin Tharp of the home; daughter, Misty (Jeff) Hitchcock of Jonesboro; son, Zac Tharp of the home; grandchildren, Shelbye Varner of Jonesboro, Madalyn and Hoyt Tharp of Monette, Jaxson Hitchcock of Jonesboro; mother, Pauline Lamer of Newport; and a host of other family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his son, Gene Tharp; father, Virgil Tharp; grandparents, Ike and Ruby Hall; and a brother, Jerry Tharp.

His wish was to be cremated, a memorial visitation will be from 5-7 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 28, at Gregg Funeral Home in Monette.

Lasting memorials may be sent to St. Jude’s Children Research Hospital.

Online: www.greggfh.com