Forest Darryl "Butch" Tharin

Forest Darryl "Butch" Tharin, 77, passed away peacefully at his home in Trilby, Florida, on August 17, 2025. Born in Tampa on April 3, 1948, Darryl grew up in a modest South Tampa home with his brother George "Buddy," their mother Mary Evelyn "Billie," and father George "Buck." He was preceded in death by his parents, George Nathaniel Tharin III (1989) and Mary Evelyn Tharin (1996).
A proud graduate of Robinson High School, Class of 1966, Darryl went on to serve his country in the United States Air Force. From 1969 to 1973, he was stationed at Bitburg Air Base in Germany, where he supported the 36th Tactical Fighter Wing before receiving an honorable discharge.
Following his service, Darryl dedicated over 40 years to the radio industry. He worked in sales, served as a disc jockey across multiple music genres, and became a respected traffic reporter for local and nationally syndicated stations. His deep passion for music was evident in the knowledge he shared and the vast collection he lovingly gifted to friends and family.
In 1981, Darryl was initiated into the Masonic Order. Over the next 44 years, he held numerous officer titles with Palma Ceia Lodge 290 and Trilby Lodge 141, serving with pride and commitment. Darryl was a man of many passions. He was an avid supporter of Tampa and international sports teams, a certified youth soccer coach and referee, a dedicated traveler-once driving cross-country nonstop to visit a friend-and a vibrant presence on social media, always engaged in current events and politics. Later in life, Darryl devoted himself to animal rescue. On his 5-acre estate in Trilby, he rescued and fostered countless dogs and horses, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and care.
He is survived by his loving family: his brother George and wife Christa Tharin; his nephew George and wife Julie Tharin, their son Ryan and wife Monique Tharin, and their son Alec, for whom Darryl was honored to be Godfather, his niece Patricia and husband Patrick McCarron, with their children Meghan and Trevor; his cousin Gordon Cruger and family; as well as his beloved dog and horses.
A memorial service will be held at the Trilby Masonic Lodge, 21049 Old Trilby Road, Dade City, Florida 33523 on Saturday, September 20th, 11:00 AM. Reception to follow. In lieu of Flowers, the family encourages donations be made on behalf of Darryl Tharin to E.A.R.S. Elizabeth's Animal Rescue and Sanctuary, Inc. E.A.R.S. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to rescuing dogs from Central Florida. (813) 355-6285 https://earsrescue.org To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Forest Darryl, please visit our floral store.