Dick Thrasher

Dick Thrasher was born the seventh child of twelve children on November 20, 1921 in Dot, Texas to Virgle and Myrl Thrasher.  His life of 98 years as a servant leader to God, family, friends and country came to an end on October 5, 2020. Dick married his sweetheart of 73 years, Blanche, who preceded him in death in 2014.  They faithfully served the United States Airforce for 30 years, and had three children; Thomas, Ronald and Sharon. Dick spent his time in the service mostly as a gunner in many cold-war missions and in the Vietnam War where he received the Air Medal in 1969.  He survived many military missions, but the Broken Arrow was one that would be written about in historical books, newspapers and tv documentaries.  Out of a 17 member flight crew, Dick and 10 others survived the B36 bomber mission that was forced to drop an undetonated atomic bomb into the pacific ocean off the coast of BC, Canada.  A good interview with the Star Telegram in 2015 called "A Very Fortunate Survivor of Close Calls in B-36's" is an interesting piece to read regarding this mission and can also be watched on YouTube.

Dick had a passion for farming, and after his service to the military, he and Blanche bought a farm in Cross Plains, Texas where they lived from 1972-2008.  You could find him working hard on his land, growing pecans, peanuts, fruits and vegetables, or in his basement producing Old Lucky's fine wine.  He enjoyed playing Bridge and bowling league with his wife and friends.  He loved his large family and yearly reunions in the Waco area, crossword puzzles, westerns, popcorn and his beloved Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys.  Dick's life was full and adventurous, even towards the end, playing weekly Bridge at the Senior Citizens Center and taking his family out to lunch.

Dick is preceded in death by:  His mother, dad and 10 siblings.  His wife, Blanche and sons Thomas and Ronald.  He is survived by:  His daughter Sheri of Euless, Texas and husband, Bryan.  Granddaughter Tyra Newcomer of Colleyville, Texas and husband Rod.  Granddaughter Georgia Townson of Keller, Texas.  Grandson John Parker of Sachse,Texas and wife Heidi.  Grandson Aaron Parker of Arlington, Texas and wife Stephanie.  Grandson Adam Parker of Sanger, Texas and wife Christie.  Grandson Ronald Thrasher of Tampa, Florida and wife Erin.  Great-grandchildren include:  Alex, Andrew, Aidan, Hannah, Mason, Brigid and Neva.  Sister:  Bonnie Bauer of Atwater, California.