Joe Wayne Tharp

Joe Wayne Tharp of Homer, Louisiana, 81 years of age, was born July 9th, 1944, in Minden, Louisiana, to Bill Tharp and Josephine Kilpatrick. He will be remembered for his honorable discharge from the United States Airforce, a retired Union member of Local 141 plumbers and pipefitters, and a faithful deacon of Calvary Baptist Church of Homer, Louisiana. Joe was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He enjoyed riding his Harley with his devoted friends across the country. Taking his grandchildren fishing during the summer down to Lake Claiborne. Going horseback riding in the countryside along with many adventures shared with his family and friends.

He is survived by his son, John Williams Ross; granddaughter Deseriea R. Vance and husband Robert T. Vance; grandson, William L. Ross; four great-grandchildren, Kolyen W. Vance, Konner S. Vance, Kolten S. Vance, and Greyson J. Ross; along numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

He is preceded in death by his late wife of 47 years, Myrna Shackleford Tharp and step-son, Ashley Benefield.

Joe’s family would like to express their gratitude to all those who help care for him over the last year.

Pallbearers were Ricky Bearden, Ronald Day, Cody Knighton, Seth Miller, William Ross, and Tyler Dance.

Honorary pallbearers were Pete Sjogren, John Goodwin, and Hunt Powell.

In lieu of flowers honoring Joe, his family suggests memorials be made to Calvary Baptist Church of Homer, LA. 

Funeral services were held for Mr. Joe Wayne Tharp, age 81, at Calvary Baptist Church, 1993 LA 3062, Homer, LA, on Wednesday, May 6, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., and Rev. Stephen Beard, officiated. Interment followed at Arlington Cemetery in Homer, LA. Visitation was held at the church on Tuesday from 5-7 p.m.

Rose-Neath Funeral Home

Homer Chapel (318) 927-6110