Evangeline Tharp

Bob's and Eva's work in China as missionaries and Bob's work at Yale IFEL found fertile ground. Jobs well done. May he and his wife Eva rest in peace.
Tom Davidson, IFEL class of 1959.

Eva, You and Bob taught all of us who attended IFEL over the years much more than the languages. Now that you're both together in a better place, I wish you everlasting peace.

Eva, I was only just getting to know you, through the friends who surrounded you these past months and through Bob's book, "They Called Us White Chinese," when you quietly joined your beloved husband in Eternity. I knew only Bob's voice, from the many tapes we poured over at the Defense Language Institute. But judging from the many friends who speak so well of you, I feel I am given a glimpse of your kind heart. Thank you for all you and Bob did in service to God and Country. Rest well, both...

Little did I know that, when, as a 29 year old Air Force basic trainee, I heard Bob Tharp introduce himself as a "Tharp Thorn in the Thide," what a profound influence he and Eva Tharp would have on my life, including a degree in Chinese Language and Literature, a law practice heavily involving Chinese clients and issues and an appreciation for a wonderful culture - China. I am truly grateful for all that the Tharp team, and a team they were, gave to me.

Eva,
Your life was such an inspiration to so many. You and Bob influenced so many young men (and women) in a most positive way. We, in unison, proudly proclaim that you taught us the respect and disclipline that has guided us through our lives. We are happy to have known you and hope that re-united, you and Bob will be at peace.

Best regards, Barbara and Ed Bohannon, IFEL 1961 & 1963

Eva,
I add my name to the list of those whose lives were so positively affected by you and Bob. I was at IFEL in 1958. Bill Peirson

Dear Eva,
We are fast approaching the 50th anniversary of my introduction to IFEL in November of 1954. I look back with (now) fond memories of those days; they were pretty tense at the time. The profound influence that you and Bob had on my life is something that will always be cherished. May God rest your soul.

Peace be with you

I was in the IFEL Basic Chinese Mandarin class of January 1959. The course and Bob and Eva Tharp influenced my life deeply. I returned for Intermediate in 1961 and ultimately became a senior linguist/analyst/translator/ Interpreter and general Sinologist for the Department of Defense. My career, in large part, was a product of my times at Yale and continuing correspondence with the Tharps. I was privileged to sponsor an NSA recognition ceremony and award of a plaque for Bob (and as much also...