went on to serve as a Sgt. E5 Signal Corp in the US Army; and then served Florida Power & Light as Supervisor. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, woodworking, & building furniture.
Gary was a leader in all aspects of life; a helper to others in need; a patriarch to his family; a loving husband, father grandfather, and soon-to-be great grandfather.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and sister, Dolores Tharpe Powell; and is survived by wife, Carolyn K.; son, Ritchie; daughter Becky Tharpe (Rocky) Upton; brother, David H.
and grandchildren, Taylor, Tommilyn, and Rocky Upton III.
Memorial contributions may be made to 53rd Avenue Church of Christ, 3412 53rd Ave E, Bradenton FL 34203.