James Washington “Jim” Tharpe, Jr., 81, of 115 Sonnys Geta Way, Eagle Rock, died on Saturday, February 7, 2026 at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital in Roanoke.
Jim was born on April 22, 1944 in Front Royal, Va .to the late James Washington Tharpe, Sr. and Ina Belle Curry Tharpe. He was a superintendent for Hammond-Mitchell, retiring in 2021 after nineteen years with the company. He served in the United States Army, and was an avid Virginia Tech and Washington Redskins fan throughout his life.
In addition to his parents, Jim was preceded in death by a brother, David Tharpe, and a brother-in-law, Robert Broy.
He is survived by his wife, Cindy Anderson Tharpe of Eagle Rock; two sons, Wade Tharpe (Sheila) of Vinton and Jamie Tharpe (Meghan) of Troutville; daughter, April Fridley (Joe) of Salem; stepson, Joshua Haynes (Shannon) of Eagle Rock; sister, Joyce Broy of Middletown; sister-in-law, Pat Tharpe of Strausburg; brother-in-law, Chriss Anderson (Anita) of Buchanan; eight grandchildren, Gary Tharpe (Casey), Brock Tharpe (Cait), Brittani Tharpe, Jacob Fridley (Megan), Andrew Fridley (Jillian), Chase Haynes (Sarah), Lexie Brown (Jacob), and Skylur Haynes; as well as a number of great-grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.
In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Saturday, February 14, 2026 at 2 p.m. in the chapel of Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge, with the Rev. Robert McRae officiating. The family will visit with friends on Saturday afternoon from 12:30 p.m. until the time of service at Nicely Funeral Home.
The family would like to express their appreciation to Eagle Rock Fire and Rescue for their professional and caring service. The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to The American Cancer Society. To send condolences to the family online, visit www.nicelyfuneralhome.com.
