James Edward "Buzz" Thayer, Jr., age 79, passed away Saturday, August 11, 2012 at Johnston Memorial Hospital. Mr. Thayer was a U.S. Army Veteran of the Korean War and retired from Columbus McKinnon Corp. in Abingdon. He is preceded in death by his parents, James E. and Mary Sue Thayer.
He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Katherine C. Thayer; one son, Michael E. (Maureen) Thayer of Harrisburg, NC; one daughter, Cathy Richardson of Abingdon, VA; one sister, Susie Blevins of Abingdon, VA; three grandchildren, Brandon (Crystal) Robinson, Katie Thayer and Matthew Thayer; great-granddaughter, Alexa Robinson; several nieces and nephews.
Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, August 15, 2012 at Forest Hills Memory Gardens with Rev. Mark McFadden officiating.
Visitation with the family will be 6-8 P.M. Tuesday evening at the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service. The family would like to extend special thanks to Intrepid Home Health Care (especially Stephanie Roop) and Dr. Paul Armstrong.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Washington County Life Saving Crew in Mr. Thayer's name. Those wishing to express sympathy online may do so by visiting www.farrisfuneralservice.com and signing the online guest register.
The family is being cared for by Farris Funeral Service & Crematory, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210 (276-623-2700).