WILLARD RAY THACKER

Willard Ray Thacker, age 84, formerly of Frakes, Kentucky passed away May 24, 2026 at Tri State Nursing and Rehab in Harrogate, Tennessee.

He was born on April 26, 1942 in Frakes, Kentucky and was the son of Raymond and Jessie Davis Thacker.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Jeffery Scott Thacker, brother, Ralph Thacker, sister, Rosalyn Reeder, and grandson, Dakota Ray Thacker.

Willard was a hardworking man who supported his family by driving a coal truck for many years.  He adored his children and grandchildren and cherished the times that he spent with them.  Willard was an avid and very knowledgeable knife collector; his collection was vast and varied.  He enjoyed going to flea markets and was always looking for a bargain while seeking to add to his trove of treasured antiques.  Willard took many trips to Florida through the years to relax and soak up the sunshine.

He leaves behind his sons, Tony Thacker and Kelly Shawn Thacker (Melissa), brother, Steely Thacker, grandsons, Taylor Thacker (Logan), Dylan Thacker (Caitie), and Austin Gage Thacker, great-grandchildren, Dakota Grant Thacker, Renlee Thacker, Wyatt Thacker, and Rhett Thacker; Sue Thacker, mother of his children,  niece, Teresa Raines (Bob), special friend, Jesse Hurst, and a host of other relatives and friends who will miss him dearly.

Graveside services will be held for Willard Ray Thacker on Thursday, May 28, 2026 at 11:00 a.m. at Thacker Family Cemetery in Frakes, Kentucky with Rev. Johnny Parker presiding.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations be made to Green Hills Funeral Home.

Green Hills Funeral Home, Middlesboro, is honored to serve the Thacker Family.

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