Ronald Dean Thatcher, 87, of Worthington, passed away peacefully at his home at 12:05 a.m. on Thursday, January 15, 2026. He was born in Worthington, Indiana, on May 4, 1938, the son of Isaac and Katherine (Fulk) Thatcher.

Ronald proudly served in the U.S. Navy as an electrician from December 1955 until his honorable discharge in May 1959. Following his service, he enjoyed a long and fulfilling career of over 40 years with Otis Elevator, where he worked in the Supervision Department.

A dedicated member of the Worthington American Legion Post #106, Ronald deeply valued his community and his fellow veterans.

He found great joy in the outdoors and cherished any opportunity to hunt, fish, and spend time in nature. Some of his fondest memories were made coon hunting, frog gigging, and searching for mushrooms alongside his son.

Ronald is survived by his loving wife of more than 70 years, Marcella (Slough) Thatcher; his children, Karen (Danny) Barnett and Alan Thatcher (Vicki James); and his siblings, June (Hugh) Shouse, Judy (William) Cooper, Phyllis Rogers, Janet (Robert) Terrell, Linda Richardson, Mike Thatcher, and Clifford Thatcher. He is also survived by his grandchildren, Lisa (Jeremy) Robinson, Janson (Joy) Elmore, and Melissa (Billy) Christy; great-grandchildren, Kerstin Robinson, Rylan Robinson, Jacob Elmore, Cassidy Christy- Strait, Aubree Christy, and Shelby Christy; great-great-grandchildren, Ezra, Isaac, and Colton; brother in law, Gerald Wells.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his sister, Nelda Wells; brother-on law, George Rogers.

A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Memorial contributions in Ronald’s honor may be made to the Worthington American Legion Post #106.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Welch & Cornett Funeral Home in Worthington of Walton Funeral Service.

Online condolences may be shared at www.welchcornett.com.