James Gilbert Thrasher
Decatur

This city lost a fine man to cancer last Saturday. Born March 31, 1927 in Lawrence County, Gilbert Thrasher became a lifelong resident of Decatur. A kind man, he was highly regarded by all and beloved by many.

A memorial service will be held at 11 am on Thursday, March 30 at Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. (Visitation will be at 10 am preceding the service.)

Before finishing high school, he enlisted in the U. S. Naval Reserves, and was assigned overseas duty in a Seabees Construction Battalion in the Philippines during WWII.

When he returned home, he was elected "School Favorite" at Decatur High School in 1948 where he was an outstanding athlete. One of the famous "Shorty''s Boys," he starred as co-captain of the football team and lettered three years playing both offensive and defensive guard while also lettering in basketball.

He married the former Betty Wallace in1950 to whom he remained happily married for the rest of his life.

Mr. Thrasher worked over 35 years for South Central Bell (now AT&T), beginning as a line crewman and retiring as a specialist in telecommunications maintenance.

He served as a board member of the United Way of Morgan County and won a special mayoral appointment to the "Citizens of 50 of Decatur." Mr. Thrasher also served as President of the Austin Lion''s Club as well as a state officer for the Lion''s Club of Alabama.

He was a founding member of Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church where he worshiped for over 50 years. Among his many responsibilities, he served as chairman of the Administrative Board.

Mr. Thrasher was an avid bird hunter, fisherman and golfer as well as an ardent fan of the Auburn Tigers and Atlanta Braves. He also loved dancing, particularly the jitterbug. He told funny jokes and stories, enjoyed cigars and an occasional bourbon & Coke.

He is survived by his wife Betty Wallace Thrasher, daughter Gail Thrasher Cosby (Tom), son Alan Thrasher (Rhonda) and sisters Elizabeth Davidson and Ruby Daniels. He has four granddaughters: Sarah Thrasher Carter, Mary Elizabeth Thrasher, Ann Thrasher Yohr and Faye Claire Thrasher and three great granddaughters, Mary Ella Thrasher, Adelaide Blair Carter and Scarlett Ann Yohr. The family wishes to especially thank the untiring services of Alacare Hospice and Alabama Caregivers for their help and devotion to Mr. Thrasher. The family also asks that, in lieu of flowers, that donations be made to the Wesley Memorial United Methodist Church. War Eagle.