Fletcher "Junior" Thatcher, 79, of rural Worthington, passed away at 2:20 a.m., Saturday, Aug. 4, 2007, at the Residence at McCormick' Creek, Spencer.

He was born, March 24, 1928 in Freedom to Fletcher and Pearl (Dickerson) Thatcher.

Junior and his wife formerly owned and operated Thatcher's Feed & Grain in Worthington. He was also a heavy equipment operator and farmer.

He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Pauline (Wells) Thatcher; three children, Connie Thatcher, Worthington; Larry (Mona) Thatcher, Coal City; Tracy (Rich) Tarr, Bloomfield; five grandchildren, Darin (Tricia) Hostetter, Jacob (Amanda) Thatcher, Zack, Libby and Shelley Tarr; and one great-grandchild;

He was preceded in death by his parents; three brothers; and five sisters.

Funeral service will be held at 11 a.m. Tuesday at Welch & Cornett Funeral Home in Worthington with Byron Williams officiating. Burial will be in Pleasant Bethel Cemetery.

Friends may call at the funeral home 4-7 p.m. Monday and 9 a.m. Tuesday until time of service.

Online condolences for the family can be made at welchcornett.com