Benny Elijah Tharp, 83, of Newport departed this life on Friday, February 11, in Batesville. He was born July 30, 1938, to Virgil and Dorothy (Brock) Tharp.
He was of the Church of Christ belief. He was a member of the Jackson County Emergency Squad. Benny enjoyed deer hunting, crossword puzzles and reading. He also enjoyed bowling and was an avid fan of westerns and the Cardinals.
He is preceded in death by his parents, wife; Elouise Tharp, two brothers; Virgil Tharp, Lindsey Tharp, two sisters; Peggy Tharp Pressler, and Lola Tharp Carter.
He is survived by his daughters, Deborah Simmons (Sammy) of Macks and Nancy Taylor of Newport, grandchildren, Heather Smith of Carencro, Louisiana, Kandace White (CJ) of Harrisburg, Corey Hebert of Carencro, Louisiana, River Thompson of Newport; great-grandchildren, Brayden Felix, Aubree Hebert, Analeigh Hebert, Jude White, and Selina White;
Service will be 10:00 Tuesday, February 15, 2021, at Dillinger Funeral Home. Visitation will be Monday, February 14, 5 to 7 p.m. for the public. Interment will be at Hickman Cemetery in Bradford.
