Barbara Jo Tharpe

Mrs. Barbara Jo Busby Tharpe, 77, of Mansfield died Friday, May 8, 2026, at Life Care Center of Bruceton.

Services will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home Chapel. Interment will follow in Greenwood Cemetery.

Visitation will begin at noon on Saturday at the funeral home.

Barbara Jo Busby was born on August 10, 1948, in Paris, to her late parents, Joe Howard and Alma Busby. She departed this life surrounded by the love and legacy she poured into so many others.

Barbara was a devoted homemaker, loving wife, caring mother, and faithful provider who loved her family deeply. She was baptized at Sparks Street Church of Christ and later became a member of the Sparks Street singing group, “Voices of Joy,” where she faithfully lifted her voice in praise until her passing. She was also a dedicated and faithful member of Hollow Rock Church of Christ.

Barbara found joy in serving the Lord, reading her Bible, working in the church, cooking, and decorating. She also dearly loved her pet cat, Kitty, affectionately known as “Big Girl.” She delighted in sharing pictures and videos of her beloved companion with family and friends. Through every trial and season of life, Barbara remained strong in her faith. She often reminded her family, “Stay in the Lord,” and alongside her husband encouraged them by saying, “Take the Lord everywhere you go and everything will be all right.”

On December 6, 1969, Barbara united in marriage to Raymon Tharpe. Together they shared 54 years of love, faith, and devotion. To this union, four children were born: Renee Tharpe, Raymond Tharpe, Jr., Chastity Tharpe, and Ryan Tharpe. Alongside her children, Barbara and her husband lovingly helped raise their grandson, Christion Nored, whom she affectionately called “Granny’s Baby.” Her family was her heart, and the love she gave will forever remain their foundation and legacy.

Barbara was preceded in death by her husband, Raymon Tharpe, Sr.; her mother, Alma N. Busby; and her sister, Ruth Alma Washington and brother-in-law William T. Washington.

She leaves to cherish her memory and carry on her legacy her beloved children: Renee Tharpe, Raymond Tharpe, Jr., Chastity Tharpe, and Ryan (Deon) Tharpe; her grandson, Christion Nored; her sisters, Cathy Tharpe and Vicky Hodge; her brothers, Anthony Williams, Steve Howard, and Bobby Earl (Nadine) Busby; along with a host of loving nieces, nephews, cousins, friends, and extended family members who will forever treasure her love, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

McPhearson-Rawls Funeral Home - Paris 731-642-1515