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Loretta Hamlett Tharpe, a retired nurse, born March 14, 1934, left her earthly home to be with her Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, on Dec. 22. She was the daughter of the late Carrie Trent Hamlett and Willie E. Hamlett.

She was preceded in death by her husband, E. Merle Tharpe; a daughter, C. Diane Tharpe and one brother, Garland E. Hamlett.

She is survived by her daughters Kemberly T. Watts (Gary) and Janet Tharpe-Meeks (late Lonnie); 8 grandchildren and 12 great grandchildren. She is also survived by 2 sisters Hazel T. Watts and Helen H. Watts; sister-in-law, Sue B. Hamlett, and a host of nieces and nephews she loved very much.

She was a member of Mount Carmel Methodist Church and she raised her children in Phenix Presbyterian Church.

A private family ceremony will be held at a later date.