Charlotte Co. Mourns Loss of Long-Time Businessman, Community Supporter

Curtis Tharpe Loses Courageous Battle With ALS

By April Hall, Staff Writer

“If it was easy, anybody could do it,” are words that the children of Curtis Wayne Tharpe would hear him say through the years. These words would ring true as Curtis found himself in a courageous battle with ALS beginning in June 2014. Curtis, a long-time businessman and generous community supporter, fought hard and lived life to the fullest until the very end on February 18, 2016, when he left his earthly home at the age of 71.

Mr. Tharpe was a strong believer in hard work, and could be heard iterating the words “Whatever you do, do it right the first time and then you won’t have to do it again and again,” says daughter, Beverly Kunath. His hard work was evident as he would operate Curtis Tharpe Trucking (CWT) just outside of Drakes Branch, for 44 years and also BMC Rock, just outside of Charlotte Court House, for nine years. His companies were a family affair, as his three children, Beverly, Mike and Chris would work alongside him, mimicking not only their father’s work ethic, but his mindset of “being fair to everyone.”

Curtis was a generous community supporter, neighbor and friend to many in his beloved Charlotte County. His memory will be cherished by many, but foremost by his wife of 53 years, Margaret Guill Tharpe; his children, Beverly Tharpe Kunath (Kerwin), Mike Tharpe (Sherry) and Chris Tharpe (Elaine); his grandchildren, Cody, Lauren, Lindsey, Cameron, Brandy, Casey, Collin and Curstan; three brothers, Wade “Lit” Tharpe, James Tharpe (Ann) and Harold Tharpe (Margaret); numerous nieces and nephews.

Mr. Tharpe was preceded in death by his parents, Kermit and Irene Tharpe; a brother, Kermit David Tharpe; and a sister, Joyce Tharpe Nichols.

“There are no words to express how much we appreciate the outpouring of love and support we have received from the community,” said Beverly. “Our dad fought a courageous battle, and even though we will miss him terribly, we know he is in a better place.”

A funeral service was held for Mr. Tharpe on Saturday, February 20, 2016 at Lebanon United Methodist Church.