Jo Ann Thacker

November 17, 1958 - February 18, 2025

Joann “Jody” Thacker, a beloved sister, aunt, cousin and friend, passed over peacefully on February 18, 2025 at the age of 66 with her family at her side. Born on November 17, 1958 in Riverside, California, Jody was the daughter of George Harold Thacker and Mary Frances Wood.

Jody is survived by four siblings, Joyce Gosney, Janie “Sam” Burns, Jill Thacker and Perry “Peppy” Thacker, all of whom reside in Southern California.

Jody was preceded in her passing by her husband, Tony Kuendig, both of her parents, her sisters, Jenice “Niece” Hale and Jacqueline “Jackie" Nares, and her brother, Jerry Lynn Thacker.

Jody had a big heart and she was a caretaker for the better part of her adult life. She also helped her husband Tony run their San Diego-based towing company for many years.

Jody was a loyal sibling who considered her sister Jill and brothers, Peppy and Jerry, to be among her best friends. She enjoyed fishing with her brother-in-law David and solving jigsaw puzzles with her eldest sister Joyce.

Jody was a sweet aunt who made time for her nieces and nephews as they grew up, serving as a penpal and a friend who'd ride bikes with them, take them to the beach or shopping in her iconic orange VW Beetle, and she gave them eclectic, unforgettable gifts.

Although Jody did not have any children, she was a dog mom throughout her life and she loved each of her pets — and plants — with all her heart.

Jody was easy to get along with and the life of any party, especially when a song by Bruce Springsteen was played. She was known for parroting the phrases “Hoop-dee-doo” and “Mama loves mambo” from Perry Como’s songs. She liked to play darts and even won a championship trophy.

Until the last weeks of her life, she would text every single family member on the day of another family member’s birthday to make sure they received well wishes. Jody’s family will always remember her incredible beauty and her “glory days” with gratitude for the fun and love she brought to their lives