Alan G. Thayer

Alan G. Thayer, 85, of East Bridgewater, Massachusetts, passed away peacefully on January 27, 2026 in Brockton. Born on May 19, 1940, in Somerville, MA, to the late Shirley L. and Walter S. Thayer, Alan lived a life marked by devotion to family, service to community, and a spirited love of discovery and adventure.

Alan was the husband of 62 years to the late Donna L. Thayer who predeceased him just a few weeks ago on January 7. Together they built a life rich in unforgettable experiences.

He leaves behind his devoted family: Paige Thayer and her husband Daren Winckel of Sutton, Dawn Anderson and her husband Donal of Pembroke, Bryan Thayer and his wife Colleen of Plymouth, and Craig Thayer and his wife Lisa of Bridgewater.

Alan took great pride in his eight grandchildren-Justin, Dakota, Ethan, Cameron, Mercedes, Hunter, Trevor, and Tommy-and his five great grandchildren: Emilia, Carson, Addison, Nathan, and Henry. He is also survived by his brother Bruce G. Thayer and his wife Joyce of Newburyport. His family was truly the heart of his world, and he delighted in every milestone, every gathering, and every moment spent among them.

Alan attended Northeastern University before serving proudly in the United States Army for three years, later transferring to the reserves until his honorable discharge in 1965. A man of strong character and steady values, he was a Mason, a dedicated leader within the Hanover American Legion, and an active member of his church community.

Professionally, Alan devoted many years to the retail industry, in both local liquor stores and home improvement settings where he put his knowledge, humor and friendly disposition to good use. He also spent 16 years during his "retirement" working in his son's family business, Satucket Pizzeria in East Bridgewater, before it was sold in 2017.

Alan's hobbies were as vibrant and varied as the man himself. He loved shooting pool, collecting art, camping, and displaying his cherished Christmas Village collection every holiday season. A longtime New England Patriots fan, he followed the team's turnaround success this season with passion.

When he and Donna weren't exploring the world by cruise ship, they could be found traveling the backroads of New England in their RV, often on their way to favorite destinations like the Fryeburg Fair in Maine and the shores of Scusset or Salisbury beaches in Massachusetts.

Recognizable anywhere by his signature cowboy hat and suspenders, Alan was a fixture of warmth and personality - instantly visible in a crowd and always ready with a firm handshake and a sly joke. At times a quiet man, his impish grin and expressive eyes could tell you exactly what he was thinking without uttering a word.

Alan's endless curiosity, focus on a good crossword puzzle, passion for military history, and natural inclination to tinker kept his mind sharp and constantly learning, creating and solving.

His legacy lives on in the growing family he leaves behind, the lessons he shared, the laughter he sparked, and the countless memories he created for those that knew him.

Services will be arranged privately.

In lieu of flowers, the family invites donations to a charity of your choice, honoring Alan's lifelong spirit of service and generosity towards others.