Born March 26, 1936 to Morris and Goldie (Chamberlan) Tharp in Kingston Mines, he married Karen Johnson on November 18, 1955 in Glasford. She survives.
Also surviving are his children, Lance (Denise) Tharp of Bartonville, Victoria (John) Worsham, Rene (Tim) Ellison, both of Pekin, Kathy (Donnie) Crosswhite of Alma, Arkansas; 20 grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; three half-sisters: Jean (John) Bussone of Pekin, Mary (Keith) Beal of Green Valley, Becky Schuler of Pekin; one half-brother, Charles (Molly) Tharp of Pekin; daughter-in-law, Trena Tharp (wife of Bradley) of Indiana.
He was preceded in death by his parents; daughter Terri Lynn Tharp; son Bradley Duane Tharp; two brothers Phillip and Norman Tharp and half-brother, James Tharp.
Randy graduated from Timber Township High School in Glasford in 1955. After graduation, he worked for decades in the printing industry. In 1967, he gave his heart and life to Christ, and a short time later accepted God’s call on him to preach.
In 1995, after pastoring for many years, he joined Rock of Ages Prison Ministry where he faithfully served until his Heavenly Father called him home. He was influential in touching numerous lives, and if you ever had the privilege to meet him, you know he was one of a kind!
His greatest passion was winning the lost to Christ and we know as he entered heaven he heard well done my good and faithful servant. He will be greatly missed by many who loved him deeply.
His Homegoing Celebration will be Friday, October 22, 2021 2 pm at Town and Country Baptist Church in Pekin. His son-in-laws, Pastor Tim Ellison and Pastor Donnie Crosswhite will officiate. Visitation will be one hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will be at Kingston Mines Cemetery. Flowers may be sent to the funeral home.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Preston-Hanley Funeral Homes & Crematory in Pekin.
Memorial contributions may be made in Randy’s name to Town and Country Baptist Church PO Box 44 Pekin Illinois 61554.
To express condolences online, visit www.preston-hanley.com
