George R. Thayer

George R. Thayer, 87, of Canton, passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his family on Friday, February 2, 2024. George was born in Uhrichsville, Ohio on May 27, 1936, the son of the late William and Mattie (Carson) Thayer.

He was a lifelong resident of the area and 1954 graduate of Uhrichsville High School and earned his master’s degree in marketing from Kent State University. He was a United States AirForce veteran. He worked for Prudential as an Insurance agent and retired in 2001 after 12 years of service. He continued working through his retirement as a substitute teacher and ended his working career at CVS Pharmacy in 2021. George loved playing sports throughout his lifetime, especially basketball and in his later years playing softball on a Senior League. George was an avid fan of the Buckeyes, Browns, and the Cavs.

He is survived by his wife, Diane Thayer with whom he shared 30 years of marriage; sons, George R. Thayer, Jr., Thomas (Lisa) E. Thayer, Andrew E. Thayer, and Richard R. Cota; granddaughters, Carmen A. Thayer, and Kairi I. Cota; sisters Mary (Ron) Heckman, Sarah Sealy, and Linda McMillan; and numerous nieces and nephews.

Along with his parents, he was preceded in death by his siblings, Billie Kaiser, Archibald Thayer, Adelene Jaimolvicz, Madge Frazier, Walter Thayer, Jackie Thayer, Martha Thayer, William Thayer, Jr., Jean Baker, Joanne Peacher, and Cecil Thayer.

Calling hours will be held on Sunday, February 11, 2024, from 2-4 pm at the Paquelet Funeral Home. In honor of George's love for sports, please wear your favorite Sports attire during calling hours on Sunday. The family will receive friends on Monday one hour prior to the service. A Celebration of George's life will be Monday, February 12, 2024 at 11:00 am at Paquelet Funeral Home with his nephew, Pastor Cecil Thayer, Jr. officiating. Those unable to attend the service may click on Live Web Cast at 11 a.m. to watch the service. Burial will follow at Sunset Hills Burial Park, where military rites will be held. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to either: Wounded Warriors Project or Disabled American Veterans.