Alain Jean-Pierre Tharp's Obituary
Alain J Tharp, 77 of Mineral, Virginia died on April 8, 2026. Alain was born in France to Jeannine and Harold Tharp during his father’s tour of duty in the US Navy.
Alain was known for his love of history, photography, reading and power boating at Lake Anna. He also loved his wife and her fabulous home brewed coffee, followed by Sunday pancakes and many snuggles from his dog, Rowan.
Alain is survived by his wife, Gloria Benson; his sister, Dionna Prestera and her husband, Chris Prestera; his brothers-in-law, Matthew Greening and Ray Benson; his sister in-law, Jill Benson; and his father-in-law, Gene Benson. He is also survived by his nephews and their spouses: Alexander Chemerys, Graham Greening and wife Sam, Mackenzie Prestera and wife Kathleen, Cameron Benson, Tyler Benson and wife Maritza, his niece Jeannine Prestera, and many great nephews and great nieces.
His funeral will be held on Friday, April 24 at St. Jude’s Roman Catholic Church in Mineral, VA at 11:00 a.m. (full mass) with internment immediately following the service in the church cemetery. After internment, a celebration of life (food and refreshments) will be held in the fellowship hall of St. Jude’s Roman Catholic Church from noon to 2:00 p.m. Please wear something comfortable due to the procession (walking to the cemetery and back).
We will miss Alain deeply. Thank you for holding our family close in your thoughts and prayers.
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