James W. Thacker

1921 - 2008

James W. (Jimmy) Thacker, of Staunton, Va., died on Thursday, October 16, 2008, at Augusta Medical Center. He was born on December 17, 1921, in Staunton to the late James W. and Mary Reynolds Thacker. He also was preceded in death by a brother, Robert C. "Bobby" Thacker. Mr. Thacker is survived by his wife of 73 years (married on January 20, 1945), Celestia W. Thacker; a brother, Dean R. Thacker, of New York City; two nieces; and two nephews. He was a retired newspaper reporter and editor, working in Staunton and Roanoke, and a veteran of World War II serving in the South Pacific with the United States Marines. At his request, his body was donated to the Virginia Anatomical Division. A memorial service will be held 2:30 p.m. on Saturday, October 18, 2008, at the First Baptist Church in Staunton, Va., conducted by Dr. Steve Traylor and Daniel Pritchett.