Max Bailey Tharpe

Max Tharpe was a household name in Statesville when I was growing up. He was a frequent visitor to Davie Avenue school, and I remember his perching at the top of the slide, taking pictures of children as they waited on the ladder for their turn to slide down. I was in one of those pictures, along with, I think, Tommy Furr. Max captured the looks of joy and anticipation on our faces. He was such a master at that. I never heard a negative word about Max, and I know my parents admired and...

Max was an advocate for young people and their familes. Over time he reached iconic status and the captured memories he provided for thousands will live on forever. Those of us that did, are fortunate to have known the great man, Max Tharpe.

Celebrating a life well lived. We will cherish the memories forever.

Max Tharpe is a delightful memory in my childhood growing up in Statesville. Max and his mother, Jamie, would walk up and down West Front Street where they lived. My grandmother Dotson, who also lived on West Front Street 4doors up from them , had a wonderful front porch where neighbors like Max and Jamie would gather and just talk.Many a Sunday afternoon was spent doing just that with the two of them. There was always a smile on his face and a kind word. He loved children and you always...

Statesville lost a true gentleman with the passing of Max Tharpe...He took pictures of me as a child and know that he cared about all those that he came in contact with...So many of us have that memory of him just walking with his camera around his neck and before you know it he as taken your picture with your friends or by yourself and has caught another moment in time...Pictures do say a million works just by their presents....I will always rememeber him....Mac Price(Wilmington NC)