Raymond Tharp

Raymond E. Tharp, 76, of 27 West Cook Rd., died Friday, March 24, 2000 at MedCentral Hospital following a brief illness.  Mr. Tharp was born May 21, 1924 in Dayton, Ohio and has resided in Mansfield most of his life.  He retired from the Mansfield News Journal as Journalist of 38 years.  Some of the stories he covered as a reporter were The first introduction of zoning in Mansfield, The expansion of Mansfield Lahm Airport, The Max Sternbaum Murder Trial and the controversial decision to run Park Avenue through Central Park.  Ray was a graduate of Dayton Stivers High School, a Journalist Graduate of Ohio University, a long time member of Mansfield Liederkrantz, Loyal Order of Moose and Sons of Herman.  'Ray was an avid sports enthusiast and could recall statistics from any World Series or Super Bowl Games'. Go Browns!Surviving are his companion of 40 years Lucille Bishop of Mansfield; one brother, Robert L. Tharp of Cincinnati; two nephews, Robert E. Tharp of Chicago and Stephan P. Tharp of Cincinnati.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Laura and Eby Tharp of Dayton. There will be no calling or services.  Wappner Funeral Directors are handling arrangements.