Johnny Rhea Thacker, age 65, was welcomed into the arms of Jesus on Friday, February 17th, 2023.
A native of Burnsville, he was the son of the late Monroe and Lora Lee Riddle Thacker. He was also preceded in death by an infant brother, Monroe Alvin Thacker.
He was a retired employee of Glen Raven and was a member of Bolens Creek Baptist Church.
After being diagnosed with cancer in 1998, he began blacksmithing simply to try and regain his strength. But what started as a hobby turned into a lifelong passion, and over the years he created hundreds of hand forged pieces for those he loved. He continued to forge and create throughout his 25 year battle with cancer, persevering through many difficult challenges to create beautiful gifts for others.
His positive and joyful spirit was infectious and evident to everyone who met him. He believed that each day was a blessing, and that his life’s purpose was to spread as much joy and love as he possibly could with the time he was given. Although he has passed from this world, his life is an everlasting inspiration and testament to God’s love and strength.
Survivors include his loving wife of 39 years, Rita Higgins Thacker; his daughter, Karena Thacker and Evan Wells of Inman, SC; his brother, Bill Thacker and wife Debbie; his sisters, Virginia ‘Skeet’ Gardner and husband Joel, and Linda Thacker all of Burnsville; as well as four nieces and one nephew, several cousins and a host of friends.
Flowers are appreciated, or memorial donations may be made to Gideons International or to Compassionate Care of WNC.
Visitation will be held Thursday, February 23rd, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home, with the funeral service to follow at 6 p.m. A graveside service will be held Friday, February 24th at 11 a.m. at the McCracken Cemetery in Burnsville.
Holcombe Brothers Funeral Home is respectfully serving the Thacker family.
Online condolences may be made at holcombebrothersfuneralhome.com
