At almost midnight, Friday April 6, 2018, “CJ” Chester Jack Tharp rode his Harley into the gates of Heaven. CJ was born on August 14, 1949 in Brownwood, Texas to Johnny and Mary Alice Tharp. He is survived by his wife of 45 years, Denise McShan Tharp – the love of his life; and dog Sophie Dee. His 2 daughters, Chestina “Tina” Tharp Henry and Angie “Annye” Tharp Mendoza and husband Gabriel Mendoza. He was a PawPaw to “KK” Caitlynd Dianne Henry, “Princess” Cassidie Faith Henry, “Toodles” Alexys Marie Mendoza, and Roman Mendoza. He is also survied by 2 brothers, Johnnie Ray Tharp, Bill Tharp and wife Sherry, sister Suzette Quick and husband Charlie, and many nieces and nephews.
CJ graduated from Early High School in 1968. Following graduation, he worked as a master carpenter until beginning his career as a conductor for Santa Fe Railway in 1977. He retired from Santa Fe in 1985, and began his new career as PawPaw in 1993. From then on his life consisted of attending ALL the grandkids activities (with video camera in tow), riding his motorcycle, building with his daughter, going to auctions with his wife, and many other great great memories. CJ could be seen and heard cruising in his immaculate 1995 GMC Sierra Truck.
He was a hardworking and hard loving man, husband, father and PawPaw, not only to blood but many others that crossed his path.
A private celebration of life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers please make donations to either Corinne T. Smith Animal Shelter or The ARK Domestic Violence Shelter.
BABE, DAD, PAWPAW YOU WILL BE MISSED!!!!!
Condolences, memories and tributes can be shared with the family online at heartlandfuneralhome.net