Laura Ann Tharp

Laura Ann Tharp, 87, of Independence, MO, passed away peacefully on Friday, February 24th at Wilshire at Lakewood, where she has resided since 2001. Services will be 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, March 1st at Carson-Speaks Chapel. Visitation will be 6-8:00 p.m. Tuesday in the chapel. Burial in Memorial Park Cemetery, Sedalia, MO. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Christ United Methodist Church, 14506 E 39th St., Independence, MO 64055. Laura Ann was born August 3, 1918 in Saline County, MO to Charles F. and Birdie E. (Renno) Riley. She was very active at Christ United Methodist Church and The Salvation Army and held offices in the Woman�s Auxiliary of Post 21 Chapter of the American Legion. Her favorite past time was attending amateur baseball games, especially teams her brother Don coached. Laura Ann always carried a large bag of candy to the games where she passed candy out to the players and their families, thus she was known as "The Candy Lady�. Mrs. Tharp was married to Paul E. Tharp, and they celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on January 10, 1986. Laura Ann was preceded in death by her husband Paul in 1989 and her sister Helen Rittman. She is survived by her brothers Charles Riley, Jr. of Sedalia, MO and Don Riley of Chandler, AZ. Mrs. Tharp is also survived by many nieces, nephews and special friends. Laura Ann will be greatly missed.