Paul James Thacker

It is with much sadness we announce the passing of Paul James Thacker.  He left us unexpectedly on November 7, 2021, passing at Jewish Hospital in Louisville KY.  He was a loving, devoted father and grandfather. A friend to all whose lives he touched.  He was born December 21, 1937, in Harlan County, Kentucky a son of the late Joseph Glenn and Opie Lou (Rose) Thacker. 

While sharing responsibilities of raising four young children, Paul obtained his degree in business at Indiana University.  During this time, he also worked as the transportation manager for Airco/Carbide Industries located in Louisville, KY.  He was a 50-year member of both the Traffic Clerk’s Club of Louisville and the Transportation Club of Louisville.

He was active in the lives of his children, volunteering for Jobs Daughters Bethel 42 New Albany, IN. He enjoyed reading and was a never-ending fountain of knowledge.  He studied history and genealogy, combining these interests while traveling throughout the United States.  He loved long rides in his car, one time leaving to go to White Castle and ending up in Arkansas!  He also enjoyed golf and fishing.  He was an avid gardener and his yard of flowering plants looked better than any other, overlooking “his” golf course.

Paul was preceded in death by his parents, brother (Eugene Thacker), and two sisters (Mary Louise Hatmaker and Esther Bible).  He was also preceded in death by his first wife who was the mother of his children Phyllis Dowell as well as his second wife, Wanda Phillips. 

Survivors include a dear friend Trudy Martin (Floyds Knobs); his children Lisa Smith (Mike) of New Salisbury, IN; Laura Brister of Salem, IN; Leslie Walker-Davison (Jeff) of Alexandria, KY; and Larry Thacker (Shelly) of Greenville, IN. He was proud of his four Grandchildren, Mistie Borders (Deven) of Jeffersonville, IN; Bryan Thacker (Carrie) of Bedford, IN; Alex Walker (Katie) of Fort Thomas, KY and  Chris Brister (Rose Mary) of Corydon, IN.  He dearly loved his five Great Grandchildren, Taylor Smith; Josiah Thacker; Christian, Skylar and Sofia Brister; and Vincent Walker, along with several nieces and nephews.

Abiding by his wishes there will be a private service for immediate family and his body will be cremated.  Scott’s Funeral Home in Jeffersonville is handling arrangements.

On November 15, 2021, family and friends are invited to a Celebration of Paul’s Life.  The reception will be held from 4-8PM at the Radisson Louisville North (formerly Marriott Lakeview) in Clarksville, IN.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to your local Salvation Army.  Paul spoke of times while living in Harlan County when the Salvation Army delivered food, toys, and clothes to local children.  It was a life altering event for himself as well as those in his community. His family is planning a trip in his name to Harlan County this holiday season. 

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Paul James Thacker, please visit our floral store.