Diana K. Tharp

Diana Kay Tharp, a dedicated teacher, died peacefully on Wednesday, July 4, 2018, in Charlotte. Diana, 56, of Charlotte, was born October 24, 1961, in Charlotte, the daughter of Carroll E. and Jane Anne (Smith) Tharp.  She lived an active childhood, always involved in the outdoors and school activities. Following graduation from Charlotte High School in 1979, she earned her bachelors of education from University of South Carolina and spent more than 10 years teaching in Whitmore, S.C., and Fayetteville, N.C. She later taught science at Pansophia Charter School in Coldwater.

Diana devoted her life to her students, always inspiring the wonder of science in them. She often led expeditions along the beaches of South Carolina to rescue migrating turtles. In Michigan, she ensured that foreign exchange students found the best experience in their studies, hosting trips up North to Mackinac Island and beyond. She enjoyed volunteering as a docent at the Binder Park Zoo. Diana volunteered much of her time to her community and her church. As a member of the Gresham United Methodist Church, she helped organize various activities.  She served as her mother, Jane’s “right hand” at the Charlotte Community Nursery Preschool. Diana also loved special trips with her Aunts, and time spent with her nieces and nephews.

Diana is survived by her mother, Jane Ann Tharp; siblings, David (Betsy) Tharp, Sharon Gault, and Mark Tharp; aunts, Helen (Jack) Snedeker and Sue (Dick) Trimble; special nephew, Ian “Bug” Gault; and her nieces, nephews and cousins.

She is predeceased by her father; aunt, Sally Vanderploeg; and her brother-in-law, Danny Gault.

A memorial gathering will be held at a later date.

If desired, the family suggests memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or Gresham United Methodist Church.

Friends and family are encouraged to share memories of Diana on her tribute page at PrayFuneral.com.