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BORN
1941
DIED
2024
FUNERAL HOME
Clarence Tarpley Obituary
February 24, 1941 - May 29, 2024
Clarence Lee Tarpley, 83, of Roanoke, went home to be with the Lord Wednesday, May 29, 2024. He was preceded by his grandparents, the Rev. E.N. Tarpley and wife Elizabeth, and Walter P. and Reba Crouch; parents, Claude Lee Tarpley and Lucille Payne.
Clarence was a graduate of Andrew Lewis High School where he was a member of the 1958 State Champion Track Team, as well as a member of the football team. After graduating from high school he attended Virginia Tech where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and the football team. Following his time at Virginia Tech he accepted a job as an Electrical Engineer working for several communications companies and ultimately retired from AT&T. He was a kind man with a generous heart and had many varied hobbies including; woodworking, gardening, and beekeeping. He was an experienced ham radio operator with the call sign of WA4OMR and also served with the MARS system (Military Affiliate Radio Service). He was a member of the Sons of the American Revolution, The Sons of Confederate Veterans, and Taylor Masonic Lodge.
Surviving is his high school sweetheart and wife of 65 years, the Rev. Betty Arrington Tarpley; sons, Adam Clarence Tarpley (Sharon), Jay Stuart Tarpley; grandchildren, Joel Stuart Tarpley (Grace), Christina Cripps, Nicholas Cripps (Rachel); sisters, Joyce Lynn Rausch (Richard "Dick"), Luanne Osborne (David); and numerous nieces and nephews.
In recognition of the love that Clarence had for his German shepherd dogs the family asks that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to the Virginia German Shepherd Rescue, P.O. Box 733, Centreville, VA 20122-0733.
The family would like to extend their gratitude to Clarence's primary care physcian, Dr. Matt Billups, as well as Dr. Luke Ennis and the staff at Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital.
A Celebration of Clarence's life will be held 2 p.m., Saturday, June 1, 2024, at Simpson Funeral Home, 5160 Peters Creek Road, with the Rev. Emory Tarpley officiating. The family will receive friends 2 hours prior to the service. Arrangements by Simpson Funeral Home, 540 366 0707.
Simpson Funeral Home
5160 Peters Creek Road Roanoke, Virginia 24019
Memories and Condolences
for Clarence Tarpley
Sponsored by Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory - Peters Creek Road.
Ed Prout
July 16, 2024
Clarence and I were friends since 1987, when I came into the F.A.S.T. group. He made me feel welcome, and he was always with a smile and laughter. He will be missed by many, including his co-workers. R.I.P. my friend, and thanks for your years of friendship.
Greg Wroniewicz
June 5, 2024
I would share my thoughts and prayers for you and your family. Clarence and I played football together for several years. I enjoyed his life and friendship.
Tana Thomas
June 4, 2024
Betty & family of Clarence,
I am so very sorry for your loss. You are in my thoughts & prayers.
God Bless,
Tana Thomas
Ronnie McNamara
June 1, 2024
Sorry to here ur loss Betty. This is Ronnie McNamara, Clarence was my manager in the old Data Shop back in the early Telephone days. I remember ur place just off of Patterson ave in Richmond. Hope u are doing well and Tarp, as we use to call him is in a better place. now.
Debbie and Bob Giles
June 1, 2024
So sorry to hear of Clarence´s passing he will be remembered fondly.
Prayers of comfort for your family.
Jack Arnold
May 31, 2024
Dear Betty and Family,
I´m deeply saddened to hear of Clarence´s passing, and wish to express my heartfelt condolences. Clarence was a wonderful man in all respects. I treasure the time we spent together when we were involved in the growth of Light of Christ Church. I highly respected Clarence for many reasons. He was personable and kind, and a man of many talents. He is in a wonderful place now where some day you will be joyfully reunited. He will be deeply missed.
With Love,
Jack Arnold
Brandy Hensley
May 30, 2024
Adam, Sharon and family,
So sorry for your loss. Sending prayers of comfort during this difficult time.
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Memorial Events
for Clarence Tarpley
Jun
1
Visitation
12:00 p.m.
Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory - Peters Creek Road5160 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019-3810
Jun
1
Celebration of Life
2:00 p.m.
Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory - Peters Creek Road5160 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019-3810
Funeral services provided by:
Simpson Funeral Home & Crematory - Peters Creek Road5160 Peters Creek Road, Roanoke, VA 24019-3810
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