STATEHOUSE (March 31, 2009) - Linda and the late Larry Thorpe have provided a loving home for children with mental and physical disabilities for the past 30 years. Today, state Rep. Jeff Thompson (R-Lizton) and the House of Representatives honored them for their selfless commitment. The Thorpes had three children of their own and have either adopted or taken guardianship over 31 others. Twenty-two of their children, ranging in age from 5 to 32, still live in the home, and almost all of them have some type of physical and/or mental disability. The couple also welcomed into their home more than 300 foster children who also had these disabilities. "The Thorpes' labor of love has touched the community of Jamestown in such a profound way," Rep. Thompson said. "They built their lives on a foundation of love, faith in God and service to mankind. They are an inspiration to all of us, and we thank them for all they have done." The Thorpes worked with a small team of nurses and volunteers, homeschooling and caring for all their children. Larry passed away in February 2009 after a long battle with cancer. Since then, Linda and the team of nurses have received additional training to take over many of the duties Larry completed. This past Christmas, knowing that it would most likely be his last, Larry wrote a letter to each of the children, sharing memories and his feelings for them. Damar Services, an organization that helps children and adults with developmental disabilities, has been providing assistance in the Thorpe home for many years and was also honored in the resolution.
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