Arthur “Art” Smith Thorpe, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and lifelong Georgia Bulldog fan, passed away on July 19, 2026, at the age of 76. A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Art spent the past eight years living in Daphne, Alabama, while keeping his roots firmly in his home state.
Born in Atlanta on August 1, 1949, to Alfred “Sonny” and Mary Thorpe, Art graduated from Towers High School in 1967. He married the love of his life, Sharon Scott Thorpe, on October 11, 1969, building a life centered on family, loyalty, and deep-seated traditions.
Art proudly served his country in the United States Army from 1970 to 1972, stationed primarily in Germany. Following his military service, he began his career in banking at C&S before turning his attention to the home and auto entertainment industry with CMC Stereo and HiFi Buys. He later found a long, fulfilling career as a trusted service advisor, serving customers for many years at Honda dealerships.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Art followed the Atlanta Braves and Falcons faithfully, but his true devotion was reserved for the Georgia Bulldogs. As a season ticket holder for over 40 years, fall Saturdays spent tailgating in Athens and cheering on the Dawgs in Sanford Stadium were among his greatest joys.
Art is survived by his beloved wife of 56 years, Sharon Scott Thorpe; his sons, Chris Thorpe (Kim) and Brad Thorpe; his grandchildren, Johnston, Hayden, Abby, Anna Katherine, and Becca; his great-grandson, Jaden; his sister, Tricia Brown (Benny); his brother, Mike Thorpe (Nina); and his brothers-in-law, Ron Scott Sr (Linda) and Ed McGowan; numerous nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred “Sonny” and Mary Thorpe, and his sister, Mary Thorpe McGowan.
Hughes Funeral Home, 26209 Pollard Road, Daphne, AL, is assisting the family.
Art & Sharon are two of my oldest friends. We will miss him deeply, and my hopes & prayers are with Sharon and their family.
Art was one of the kindest, most loving and considerate man I have ever known. I met him back in 1988 when I was looking for a new car. He was always so kind and gracious with me over the years. I met Sharon, his wife, some years later when I needed an account for my small business. You could see the love between them and their entire family. My heart aches for Sharon and his entire family. Such a tragic loss of a good man.
My little brother,, my rock, my best Bud, and the glue that held our family together, he and our brother Mike, after the death of our sister, and parents. I don’t know how I can imagine life without him. May God wrap his arms around one of the best angels he could receive. ❤️
We were next door neighbors to Art and Sharon in Grayson for ~ 20 years. They were the best neighbors ever. Art will be missed for sure.
Heaven gained one of the good ones. You were one of the sweetest, funniest people I’ve ever had the privilege of working with and knowing. You always knew how to make me laugh and your kindness made every day brighter. I’ll always be thankful for the hugs, laughs, and the smiles you shared freely. You left a lasting impact on so many people, I will miss you. Rest easy. It was truly an honor to know you.
The best grandfather i could’ve ever got in my life time. A true definition of a great man. I couldn’t be more thankful for the time i got to spend through my life with my grandfather. I lived with my grandparents for almost 10 years of my life. And will forever be grateful that i was able to. I love you pops. We’re going to take care of mama. Don’t worry. And like always. GO DAWGS!!
Today I want to remember my friend, Art “The Kid” Thorpe.
For over 10 years, we worked together at Honda Mall of Georgia, and I can honestly say he was one of the funniest people I’ve ever known. He was 76 years old, but you would have never guessed it. He truly earned the nickname “The Kid” because that’s exactly how he lived life.
I’ll never forget the time he gave me a ride home. His music was blasting with so much bass that I, who am 20 years younger than him, had to ask him to turn it down! That’s just who Art was—full of life, full of laughter, and always keeping everyone smiling.
He loved being called “The Kid.” He loved the Georgia Bulldogs. Most of all, he loved his family.
Art wasn’t just a coworker to me—he was my friend. His humor, his spirit, and the joy he brought to everyone around him will never be forgotten.
Rest in peace, my friend. You will be deeply missed. ❤️