Alvin H. Tharp, 88, of Milton, passed away peacefully, surrounded by his loving family Wednesday, May 27, 2026, at Beebe Healthcare in Lewes.

Born in Lewes Nov. 18, 1937, Alvin was the son of the late Frank H. Tharp and Sadie Gertrude (Davis) Tharp. A proud graduate of Lewes High School Class of 1955, Alvin answered the call to serve his country shortly after graduation by joining the U.S. Coast Guard. During his distinguished military career, he rose to the rank of chief boatswain’s mate before retiring in 1981 after more than two decades of honorable service.

Following his retirement from the Coast Guard, Alvin carried on a cherished family tradition by taking over his father’s business, Tharp Lawnmower Repair Service, which he faithfully operated until the early 2000s.

Alvin found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved the outdoors, whether hunting, tending his garden carefully, or enjoying time in nature. He was an avid bowler, a devoted NASCAR fan, and above all, a proud family man. Nothing brought him greater happiness than spending time with his children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, especially cheering them on at sporting events and family gatherings.

In addition to his parents, Alvin was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 63 years, Ollie (Evans) Tharp, in 2021, and by his sister, Joan Rebecca Hopkins.

He leaves behind a loving family who will forever cherish his memory, his son, James F. Tharp of Wilmington; his daughter, Teresa L. Bennington and her husband Paul of Laurel; four grandchildren, Katie E. Kimbro and her husband Brad of Erin, Tenn., Krista L. Wing and her husband Zeke of Seaford, Kaleb J. Scott of Seaford, and Kimberlyn B. Lewis and her husband Dillon of Laurel; and three great-grandchildren, Eli Wing, Klaira Wing and Noah Kimbro, with another great-grandchild expected soon.

Alvin is also survived by three step-grandchildren, Adele Edwards and her husband John of Lewes, Danielle Baker and her husband Steven of Georgetown, and Alex Bennington of Park City, Utah; five step-great-grandchildren, Luke, Elizabeth, Lane, Wyatt and Dallas; his sister, Nancy Brock and her husband Jim of Rehoboth Beach; and his brother-in-law, George Hopkins of Lewes.

A visitation will be held from 9 to 10 a.m., Thursday, June 4, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro. A funeral service will follow at 10 a.m. Interment will take place afterward at Coolspring Presbyterian Church Cemetery near Lewes.

Alvin’s life was defined by devotion to his country, his work, and most importantly, his family. His quiet strength, steady presence, and unwavering love will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions in Alvin’s name to Delaware 4-H Foundation, 501 S. College Ave., Newark, DE 19716, delaware4hfoundation.org. 

 Online condolences may be sent by visiting melsonfuneralservices.com.