Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc.

08/02/2025

Patricia Ann Reynolds

Patricia Ann Reynolds , 67, of Forest, VA, passed away on Saturday, August 2, 2025.Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

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08/01/2025

Sandra R. Campbell

Sandra Jane Reichard Campbell, affectionately known as “Sandy,” 75, of Madison Heights, VA, went home to her Lord and Savior on Saturday, July 26, 2025. Born on March 21, 1950, she was the daughter of the late John David Reichard and the late Helen Hamilton Reichard, of Madison Heights. Besides her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Ronnie Daniel Campbell of Amherst and her sister, Caroline Reichard Phelps of Madison Heights.She leaves behind her three loving children:...

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08/01/2025

Janet Marie Barker Reynolds

Janet Marie Barker Reynolds was born April 15, 1932, until July 30, 2025, age 93 of Gretna, Virginia, passed away at Fairmont Crossing Health & Rehabilitation in Amherst. She was in the care of NAYAR Hospice of Bedford.Born in Pittsylvania County, Virginia, she was the youngest of eleven children of the late Clinton Scott Barker and Daisy Jacobs Barker. She was known affectionately by her nickname “Cutta” to most of her family and some friends. She was a lifelong industrial...

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08/01/2025

Javion Shikiem Mack

Javion Shikiem Mack , 13, of Lynchburg, VA, passed away on Thursday, July 31, 2025.The family is accepting donations to assist with funeral services by contacting Tharp Funeral Home directly at 434-237-9424 during our business hours of 8 AM - 5 PM.Tharp Funeral Home & Crematory, Lynchburg, is assisting the family.

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08/01/2025

Wilmer L. Jones

Wilmer L. Jones, 47, of Greensboro, North Carolina passed away on Tuesday, July 29, 2025. Service details are forthcoming. The family request that you consider making monetary donations to assist with funeral expenses by calling 434-237-9424. Your generosity is appreciated. Tharp Funeral Home, Lynchburg is serving the family.

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08/01/2025

💬 Ask a Funeral Director 💬
We know funerals and final arrangements can feel overwhelming—and sometimes even a little mysterious. That’s why we’re opening up the comments for your questions. No question is too small or too taboo.

Wondering things like:
• What exactly happens during cremation?
• Can we put letters or photos in the casket?
• Is embalming always required?

Ask away—whether it's something you’ve always wondered or something you’ve been nervous to ask. We’re here to help, without judgment and with compassion.

👇 Drop your questions below and we’ll answer them right here in the comments or in a follow-up post.

07/31/2025

John Emmett Riordan, III

John Emmett Riordan, III, 71, passed away peacefully with family by his side on July 26, 2025, at Westminster Canterbury in Lynchburg, Virginia. Born on September 8, 1953, at Fort Benning, Georgia, John – affectionately known as “Chip” – lived a life marked by strength, resilience, and deep love for his family and friends.He was the son of the late John Emmett Riordan, Jr. and Claudia Anne Birchmore Riordan.John was a devoted father to five children: Preston Riordan (Christina), Corey...

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07/31/2025

James Barclay Andrews, II

James Barclay Andrews, II passed away peacefully on Monday, July 28, 2025, at the age of 85. Born in Roanoke, Virginia, on November 25, 1939, Barclay made his home in Lynchburg for over 55 years, where he was a cherished member of the community.Barclay graduated from Virginia Tech with a degree in Electrical Engineering and went on to earn a doctorate in Nuclear Engineering from MIT. Following his academic achievements, he served proudly in the U.S. Army for two years...

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07/31/2025

Lois Marie Owen Sandidge

Lois Marie Owen Sandidge, formerly of Lynchburg, Virginia, passed away on July 26, 2025. Lois was born on January 30, 1942, to the late Ward B. Owen, Sr., and Grace Y. Owen. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Bryan E. Owen, Sr.; sister, Evelyn L. Owen; and sister-in-law, Mary Pat Owen.Lois grew up in Brookneal and lived in Victoria and Lynchburg as an adult. She was a graduate of Longwood College and taught school in...

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07/29/2025

When planning a funeral or memorial service, families often ask:
“Do we need to pay the pastor, musician, or the individuals performing military honors?”

While not always required, it is common practice—and in some cases, expected—to provide a separate honorarium as a gesture of appreciation to those who contribute meaningfully to the service. This may include:

✝️ Clergy or Officiants – Pastors, ministers, or celebrants who lead the service
🎶 Musicians & Vocalists – Those providing live music or solos
🫡Individuals Performing Military Honors – Including those who present flags, perform rifle salutes, or play Taps

These individuals often give their time and talents outside of regular duties or as part of volunteer organizations. A monetary honorarium is a thoughtful way to express thanks and recognize their role in the service. In some cases—such as certain churches—an honorarium may be required.

💵 While amounts vary based on role and family preference, common ranges are:
– $100–$300 for clergy or officiants
– $50–$150 for musicians or soloists
– $50–$100 for individuals performing military honors

We're always happy to help coordinate and pass along any honorariums on your behalf, and can also let you know in advance if any fees are required.

Most importantly, please know that there is no wrong way to show appreciation—your kindness, words of thanks, and presence go a long way, too.

If you have questions about this or want to discuss what’s customary for your service, we’re always here to guide you through it.

07/28/2025

Kathleen Collins Cordero

Kathleen Collins Cordero, 50, of Roanoke, Virginia passed away on July 20th, 2025. She was the daughter of the late Nelson Rivera and Evelyn Carrasquillo.Kathleen was born on November 2, 1974, in Camden, New Jersey.She was a very loving home health aide, wife, mother to her kids, mother to bear, our pitty baby boy. She loved music and dancing. Her favorite music was salsa and bachata. She loved God very much!Kathleen is survived by Virginia Cordero; five children; four siblings...

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07/28/2025

Brian David Reed

Brian David Reed, 40, of Lynchburg, VA passed away on Monday , July 21, 2025. He was born on June 7, 1985 in Bedford, Virginia to the late Johnny Calvin Scott and Melissa Ann Webster. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by Best Friend, Shane Key.Brian Is survived by his girlfriend, Savannah Watson; children, Lucian Reed, Keeley Reed; brothers, Branden Webster (Tamara), Justin Reed; sister, Gynn Scott; and numerous other family and friends.The Family will receive...

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