It is with heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Christopher Allen Tharp, a dedicated soldier, peace officer, beloved husband, son, and father. Born on July 6, 1971, in San Antonio, Christopher peacefully departed this world on April 18, 2024, at his home in Jourdanton, surrounded by his loving family.

Chris dedicated his life to protecting and serving his country and community. After graduating from Woodsboro High School, he joined the Navy in 1989 and proudly completed his service in the Army in 2009, serving 5 tours and receiving the prestigious Purple Heart for his bravery during his last tour. Chris' dedication of protecting and serving didn't stop after the military. He began his career in law enforcement, starting as a jailer for 7 years 2 months, then a peace officer for a total of 13 years 9 months, finishing with the Atascosa County Sheriff's Department. His commitment to justice and integrity garnered the respect and admiration of all who knew him. Chris was known for his kind heart, unwavering dedication, and passion for motorcycles, detailing cars, and researching sports cars and trucks. His kindness, great sense of humor and unwavering loyalty touched the lives of all colleagues.

Chris was a one-of-a-kind type of guy, and he found his soulmate when he found Marisa, even though when he saw her for the first time, his reply was "why didn't you tell me you were so little." They loved spending time together, whether it was going places, BBQing or just relaxing. Chris made sure to show how much he loved Marisa daily. They had dreams to travel and make many more memories together, but these were cut short due to his illness.  This is a memory that Chris sent to Marisa in a text, in 2020:

"I wanted to leave this right here so that others may read, When we are old and reaching our time to go home, we will be just a memory, but it is our love that will last and create new memories for people who just found true love and for them to say, "they want to love each other as we did", and that will be a lasting memory.""

He was preceded in death by his beloved daughter, Alexandria (Alex) Renea Tharp; grandparents, Lewis and Wanda (McCarty) Stone and Robert and Ruby (Walker) Nowell.

He is survived by his spouse, Marisa Tharp; his parents, Joe Allen and Glenda Ruth (Nowell) Tharp; children, Lucas Robert Tharp, Rae Lynn Nichole (Tharp) Amon, EJ Dominic Tharp; and stepchildren, Adiah Marie Habel and Elana Leigh Habel; brother, Jason Edward Tharp; and numerous other relatives.

Family and friends are invited for a viewing in Chris' honor at St. Andrew Catholic Church on Saturday, May 4, 2024, starting at 11:00 am, followed by a rosary at 12:00 pm, and mass at 12:30 pm. Christopher will be laid to rest, with military honors, at 1:45 pm at St. Andrew Cemetery #1.

Let us come together and honor the life of a remarkable man who made a lasting impact on all who knew him.

For anyone wishing to leave condolences for the family, share memories or sign the online guestbook you may do so at www.hurleyfuneralhome.com.