James W. Thatcher

James William Thatcher, 88, of Zanesfield, went home to be with the Lord on Saturday morning, March 29, 2025, at Hospice of Central Ohio at The Ohio State University.

Jim was born in Dayton, Ohio, on October 3, 1936, to the late Samuel Malcom Thatcher and Bertha Elizabeth (Burgett) Thatcher. He married the love of his life, Elizabeth Ann Freer on June 6, 1964, and they enjoyed a beautiful life together for 59 ½ years before she preceded him in death on September 29, 2023. Jim was also preceded in death by his brother, Richard Thatcher.

Jim is survived by his daughter Rebecca (Joseph) Small; son Joseph (Lisa Wilder) Thatcher; grandson Andrew Thatcher; sisters-in-law Diane Thatcher, and Mary Jane Trimble Hickman; brother-in-law John Jay Freer; and much-loved nieces and nephews.

A 1954 graduate of DeGraff High School, Jim was a veteran of the U.S. Army, having served during peacetime as a supply truck driver, and on special occasions transporting U.S. dignitaries. He was stationed in Germany and primarily drove there and in France. Following his honorable discharge, Jim worked many years at Westinghouse, then went to work at ComDyne Industries in West Liberty, and he retired from PRP Plastics in Urbana. Having grown up on the family farm and working for several years farming for Tangers, he loved to drive tractors, plow, harvest, work the seed house, and be outdoors in the fresh air. In recent years he purchased a Farmall M and loved participating in the West Liberty Labor Day parade with his grandson and son. Jim was a fan of baseball and followed the Cincinnati Reds. He also cherished time spent playing catch in the back yard with his grandson Andrew. A beloved and caring husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend, Jim loved spending time with his wife and family, and sharing stories, particularly of his Army and farming days.

Jim will be fondly remembered by his family and friends for his kind and helpful nature, and his informative and entertaining stories.

The family expresses heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers and staff at Logan Acres Care Center for the friendship and care provided to Dad in his time there, and the doctors and staff at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center for the recent care provided to Dad.

Per James’ wishes, there will be no services.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to a charity or organization of the donor’s choice.

EICHHOLTZ DARING & SANFORD FUNERAL HOME & Cremation Center, Bellefontaine, is honored to serve the Thatcher family and encourages anyone to share a fond memory or message of condolence at www.edsfh.com

Family-authored obituary / EJT