Tharpe – Emmette Clayton Tharpe, age 85, of Callahan, Florida went home on June 12, 2021, after a valiant and courageous fight.  He had ambition, grit, and determination. He was proud of his career at Winn Dixie and Publix but was most proud of the business he built from scratch, County Boy Feed. He loved his customers and considered them friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, Louie Frank and Lula McCall Tharpe; brothers, William Houston, Louie Grafton, Waylon Milton Tharpe. He is survived by his wife of 32 years, Patti; sister, Virginia Tharpe Gallopo, brothers, Marion Preston Tharpe, Melton Durell Tharpe; children, Penny (David) McGowan, Beth Middleton, Bill (Amanda) Tharpe, Erica (Rusty) Newton; 9 grandchildren; 6 great-grandchildren.

One life come into the world and one life leaves. Our family has had the bookends of joy and sorrow. His sixth great-grandchild was born on Sunday. We lost him on Saturday night. He loved his children, his grandchildren, and his great-grandchildren. He fought hard and we were gifted with extra time with him. At the end, he passed with family there.

A Celebration of Emmette's Life will be held on Friday, June 18, 2021 from 6-8 p.m. Nassau Funeral Home. Interment beside his mother and father will be on Monday, June 21, 2021 in Shady Grove Cemetery in Sampson, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that you donate to a charity of your choice in his honor. Arrangements are under the care and direction of Nassau Funeral Home, 541720 US-1, Callahan, Florida 32011. 904-879-1770.