The Richmond News, Aug. 25, 2023

Frieda Ann Thacker, 86, of Richmond passed away on Friday, Aug. 18, 2023, at NorthCare Hospice House in Kansas City.

Frieda was born on Nov. 19, 1936, in Rayville, the daughter of Fred Francis and Grace Mae (Stapleton) McKinney.

Frieda Thacker

She was united in marriage to J.W. Thacker of Richmond on Dec. 27, 1956. They later divorced. Survivors include four children, Chuck (Lisa) Thacker of Overland Park, Kan., Jayanna Harrison of Richmond, Jim Thacker (Marti Flynn) of Wellington and Jaynice Williams of Richmond; six grandchildren, Jordan Thacker, Brian Harrison, Aaron Harrison, Johnathan Thacker, Joshua Thacker and Madalynn Prom; six great-grandchildren, Annabel Harrison, Oliver Harrison, Brianna Thacker, Bailey Thacker, Teagan Thacker and John Thacker; one sister, Margaret French of Rayville; and several nieces and nephews.

She was preceded in death by her parents; son, John Wesley Thacker Jr.; four brothers, Fred, Francis, Lawrence and David McKinney; and sister, Dorothy Cutting.

Frieda was reared and educated in the area of her birth. She attended elementary school in Rayville, then graduated with the class of 1954 from Richmond High School.

Frieda’s work history included working at Walmart for 20-plus years, selling Avon, ironing for people, babysitting, working for Doctor Mason and Doctor Harrison as a chiropractic assistant, and working for 27 years as a deputy assessor for Ray County.

Frieda was known as a selfless person with a big heart. She was always first to volunteer and help others. She volunteered for the American Red Cross, the Shirkey nursing home, the American Cancer Society, at church functions and always for her children’s events at school. Her love and kindness for others was extended profoundly to those around her. If someone passed away in her neighborhood, she was always there to show compassion and help the family with whatever was needed.

She enjoyed sending cards to people; watching the Chiefs and Royals, and softball games; reading; and puzzles. She loved attending her class reunions in Rayville and Richmond. Spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren was her greatest joy.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to the Richmond School Backpack Program. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation with funeral services will be held Saturday, Aug. 26, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond, with visitation beginning at 10 a.m. and services to follow at 11. Burial will be in Woodland Cemetery, Richmond.

Please share your memories of Frieda with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome.com.