Billy Dale Tharp

Billy Dale Tharp, Springfield, MO, passed away at 7:15 pm, Tuesday, May 5th, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Springfield.

He was born August 23rd, 1963 to Loren Edward and Betty Claudene (Montgomery) Tharp. He attended West Plains High School, class of 1981; and Missouri State University, where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in Sociology with an emphasis in Criminal Justice in 1990.

While Billy was attending Missouri State University, he met the love of his life, Karen Elizabeth Giles. After a short time dating, they were married June 5th, 1992. They have relied on one-another from that day on. Their marriage was blessed with two children; a son, Edward James, and a daughter, Jamie Lynn.

Billy was a Veteran, enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1984. He served his country honorably as a Military Policeman until his Honorable Discharge in 1990. He was proud of his service and enjoyed sharing this with his Brothers in Arms.

He went on to work at Missouri State University for 19 1/2 years, serving as a Public Safety Dispatcher, Public Safety Officer, and Safety and Transportation Technician until his retirement in April of 2021. He enjoyed sewing and needlework and sharing his love through gifting his crafts to those in his path. He enjoyed traveling across the United States and visiting historic landmarks and natural wonders with his wife. He loved spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandson.

He was raised in a faithful household and accepted the Lord into his heart at 12 years old. He has faced many struggles throughout his life and has leaned on God through them.

He was preceded in death by his parents, and several other extended family members.

He is survived by his wife of 34 years, Karen Tharp; his children Ed Tharp and wife, Susannah, Jamie Lynn (Tharp) Hart and husband, Keegan; his grandson, Spencer Levi Tharp; his siblings, Eddie Tharp and Deborah (Tharp) Tuhey and a host of extended family and many friends.

Graveside services will be at Springfield National Cemetery (1702 E. Seminole St., Springfield, MO 65804) on Monday, May 11th, 2026 at 1 o'clock in the afternoon with full Military Honors, under the care of Herman H. Lohmeyer Funeral Home: 500 E. Walnut Street, Springfield. MO 65806.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to The Gideons International or the American Cancer Society.