Duane Michael Thacker

Duane Michael Thacker, 71, passed away peacefully at his Mt. Sterling, Ohio, home surrounded by his loving family on April 1, 2026. He was born July 31, 1954, to James Albert Thacker and Shirley Lois (Wilson) Thacker.

In addition to his parents, Duane was preceded in death by his brothers: Jeffrey Thacker, Mitchell Thacker, Brian Thacker, Sister-In-Law Debbie Thacker, and daughter Bobbie Jacobs.

Duane is survived by his wife of 47 years Phyllis Thacker; children Chris (Katrina) Thacker and Tracy Thacker (Bill Abernathy); brother Gregory (Kathleen) Thacker; and Sister-In-Law Tina Thacker. He is also survived by grandchildren: Hailey Thacker (Sierra Lapasky); Chloe/Eden Kirk (Austyn Robinson); Drew Kirk, Riley Kirk, AJ Jacobs, Mackenzie Thacker, and Matthew Thacker, along with numerous nieces and nephews. Special mention of Duane’s best friend, Ron Thompson for over 60 years (and Kay of over 50 years). 

Lovingly referred to as Draino, Bubba, and Papaw, he was quick-witted, strong-willed, and adored his family wholeheartedly. Duane is known for his love of animals and raised chickens, Dutch rabbits, and Checkered Giant rabbits for which he won Best of Breed at the Ohio State Fair many years ago. He also had several cats and was usually seen with one of his faithful dogs by his side: Sophie, Pudly, Toby, Hemmy, and Miles. For over 20 years, he worked hard on his fish pond, which contained large gold fish and Koi. Duane enjoyed gardening and growing flowers in the back yard, watching the hummingbirds return to the feeder every year, and enjoying the sunshine while doing so. He enjoyed fishing and boating, making trips to Lake Erie, Lake Cumberland, and Canada as often as he could. 

Duane worked many, many years with children and adults with Developmental Disabilities, providing support and kindness. He enjoyed their unique and wonderful personalities, along with the ability to live life to the fullest and shower everyone they met with love. He worked with great people during his career who upheld the standards he believed in presenting the students with the opportunity for growth and independence.

Duane has been a lifelong Cleveland Browns fan and never failed to root for them despite the Browns not having made it to the Super Bowl. And in fact, often finishing in a deficit in many a season. That made no difference to Duane. He has always maintained his loyalty, and that never wavered. GO BROWNS!! He was also an Ohio State Buckeye fan and has always accepted a couple of family members who, for some unknown reason, preferred a certain team up north. GO BUCKS!

Visitation will be held from 11:00 am-12 Noon on FRIDAY, April 10, 2026, at PORTER-TIDD FUNERAL HOME, 331 W. Main Street, Mt. Sterling, Ohio, 43143. Funeral Service will immediately follow the visitation at 12 Noon.

In lieu of flowers, please honor Duane and his daughter Bobbie by donating to The Children’s Heart Foundation, which can be found at: https://www.childrensheartfoundation.org/get-involved/tribute-gifts.html.