John Thomas Harp Sr., 91 Chattanooga

John Thomas Harp Sr., of Chattanooga, Tenn., passed away Wednesday, Aug. 24, 2016, at his daughter’s home. He was 91.

Mr. Harp was born in the Hinkle Community of Lookout Mountain to the late William Henry Harp Sr., and Florence Partin Harp, descendants of the earliest settlers of Walker County. When roads were dirt, the water from a well, and bathrooms were out back, his childhood memories of growing up in rural Georgia always made for exciting stories to his children and grandchildren.

He served his country in the U.S. Coast Guard during World War II and during the Korean Conflict he served in the U.S. Navy and would write letters to his soon-to-be wife describing how he was fighting the communists.

Mr. Harp was employed by the Mueller Corporation as a superintendent for many years and was a member of the American Foundryman Association. He was also an avid golfer.

He was preceded in death by his wife, Martha Alexander Harp; brothers, Ansel and William Harp Jr., and sister, Marie Harp Torbett.

Survivors include: His daughter, Rebecca (Eugene) Long; son, John Thomas Harp Jr.; beloved granddaughters, Abigail, Cora and Lydia and special nieces and nephews.

There will be no visitation at the funeral home.

Graveside services: Wednesday, Aug. 31, at 11:30 a.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery. A gathering of friends will follow the service at his daughter’s home.

A special thank you is extended to Anna for always being there, Mr. Kenny and his family, and to the staff at Amedisys Hospice.

Online guestbook available at lane-southcrestchapel.com.

Arrangements: South Crest Chapel of Lane Funeral Home & Crematory, at the end of historic Missionary Ridge, Rossville.