Tharp Funeral Home

Tharp Funeral Home Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory is a locally owned and operated funeral home on the West side of Albia, Iowa. Tharp Funeral Home and Crematory
116 Benton Ave.

Built on a foundation of trusted service since 1997 when Leroy Winfield built the funeral home, Tharp continued that tradition in April of 2011 with Richard and Monica Tharp as owners. There are a few times in life when you want to be surrounded by family. When you experience a loss, call on a local, family-owned funeral home to give you the comfort and guidance you need. That family connection should be important to you because we care for you and your loved one from our first contact. One of our owners/directors will stay with you throughout the planning process and selected service. We don't believe in checklist services - we specialize in planning funerals and memorial services that reflect the personality, interests and passions of your loved one. Our staff takes pride in offering families many ways to create a personalized and memorable Celebration of Life. Personalization provides a special way to remember our loved ones and allows those present the ability to participate in the ceremony. In addition, we will work as your liaison with insurance companies, social security agencies and military entities to obtain the vital information you need immediately. Tharp is a full service funeral home offering at-need, pre-need and aftercare services, as well as, a full selection of cremation options with an onsite crematory. Because the owners of Tharp live and work in your community, we value not only your business, but also your trust. West, Albia, IA 52531
ph: 641-932-3129
fax: 641-932-3130

tharpfh@windstream.net




© Copyright 2009 Auro

08/31/2025
On International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember the lives lost, honor those grieving, and stand with families affec...
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On International Overdose Awareness Day, we remember the lives lost, honor those grieving, and stand with families affected by addiction.

Please contact us with any questions you may have.
08/27/2025

Please contact us with any questions you may have.

Dogs leave pawprints on our hearts forever. On this  , we’re offering a free e-booklet to support those grieving the los...
08/26/2025

Dogs leave pawprints on our hearts forever. On this , we’re offering a free e-booklet to support those grieving the loss of a beloved companion. A gentle resource to remind you that you’re not alone.

The booklet is free and no email is required. https://bit.ly/4oSy8xx

Ruth Ann Vitko, age 86, of Ottumwa, IA, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Homestead in Centerville, IA.    ...
08/25/2025

Ruth Ann Vitko, age 86, of Ottumwa, IA, passed away on Monday, August 25, 2025, at the Homestead in Centerville, IA.

Ruth was born on December 14, 1939, to Bernard and Beatrice (Lasley) Hayes in Putnam County, MO. She grew up attending school in Centerville and then attended Ottumwa Heights where she obtained her RN license. On January 21, 1963, she was united in marriage to James JohnVitko in Angola, IN, and to this union, 4 children, Barbara, Teresa, John, and Michael, were born. Ruth and Jim were blessed with 43 years of marriage prior to Jim’s passing on February 21, 2006.

Ruth dedicated her life to service as a Registered Nurse. She had a caring heart and love for helping others. Ruth was very strong in her faith and was a devoted member of St. Mary of the Visitation church in Ottumwa. She enjoyed spending time with her friends and was an active member of Women’s Club and the Ottumwa Book Club. Ruth’s greatest pride was her family, especially her grandchildren.

Ruth is survived by 3 children, Barbara (Jeff) Ackles of Friendswood, TX, Teresa (Juan) Barajas of Garland, TX and John (Deborah) Vitko of Rathbun, IA; 10 grandchildren; and several great grandchildren. Ruth is also survived by several nieces, nephews, cousins and good friends.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Jim Vitko; a son, Michael Vitko; her parents, Bernard and Beatrice Hayes; and 2 sisters, Helen and Shirley.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia with Ruth’s family present to greet family and friends. A Christian Wake Service will be held at 7:00 p.m.

A Memorial Service will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the Tharp Funeral Home in Albia, with Father Isaac Essel officiating. Burial will follow at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Albia.

A memorial has been established to the Mystic American Legion.

Condolences and memories to the family may be left online at www.tharpfh.com.

VA benefits are confusing! We help veterans and their families get all of their benefits. Call us and we'll set up a bri...
08/23/2025

VA benefits are confusing! We help veterans and their families get all of their benefits. Call us and we'll set up a brief appointment to answer all of your questions.

Are you:A) Hanging on to Summer? ORB) Ready for Fall?
08/21/2025

Are you:
A) Hanging on to Summer?
OR
B) Ready for Fall?

Address

116 Benton Avenue W
Albia, IA
52531

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