MaryJane Thacker

MaryJane Thacker, 78, of Charleston, South Carolina, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 22, 2025.

Born on May 30, 1947, in Battle Creek, Michigan, MaryJane was the beloved daughter of the late Maxine Trombley Despins and the late Garold Despins.

Before her retirement, MaryJane dedicated many years to her work as a tax professional before transitioning into a career in payroll. Beyond her professional life, she had a deep passion for civil service. She volunteered with the Old Fort Fire Department, where her commitment and courage earned her the honor of Volunteer Firefighter of the Year. She also completed training as a rescue diver and took part in local water rescues, always willing to lend a helping hand wherever she was needed.

Faith played an important role in MaryJane's life. She and her husband, Rick, were longtime members of Goose Creek United Methodist Church, where they joyfully sang in the choir and participated in various church groups. Together, they shared a love for travel, scenic drives, and the multiple dogs who blessed their home through the years.

Above all, MaryJane cherished time spent with her family, friends, and grandchildren. She filled her days with song, laughter, and love, always quick with a joke, and generous with her heart. Her warmth, kindness, humor, and love for music touched everyone who knew her, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and grace.

In addition to her parents, MaryJane was preceded in death by her brother, Jack Despins, and her loving husband, Rick Thacker.

She is survived by her four children, ten grandchildren, and five great-grandchildren, who will forever hold her in their hearts.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt gratitude to the caregivers at Summerville Estates and The Addison of West Ashley for the gentle and compassionate care they provided to MaryJane in her final years.

MaryJane's celebration of life will be held on October 17th at McAlister-Smith Funeral Home, West Ashley, with visitation beginning at 11:00 a.m. and a service to follow at 12:00 p.m. A private family burial will take place afterward at Live Oak Memorial Gardens.

Expressions of sympathy may be viewed or submitted at mcalister-smith.com.

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to McAlister-Smith Funeral and Cremation, 2501 Bees Ferry Road, Charleston, SC 29414, (843) 722-8371.