Joseph Lenora Thagard

He was born to Joseph Herbert Thagard and Annie Dromie Victoria Thagard (Boothe) on March 2, 1926, in Barbie AL.

He spent most of his childhood living in Dothan and Enterprise AL. He graduated from Dale County High School. He had a job at Bamby Bread Factory with his brother, driving a delivery truck. On July 21, 1944, at the age of 18, Joseph enlisted in the Navy; being stationed at three different bases. He left the Navy in 1946, but after four years enlisted in the Air Force’s on August 21, 1950. During that time he was stationed at 12 bases, including one overseas remote tour and two overseas long tours. He was in service during the Korean War; WW II, and the Vietnam War. After he retired he worked for Talquin Electric.

He was dedicated to his service to this country; and was proud to serve. He loved his family. He always worked hard and provided for all our needs.

Various hobbies and interests kept him busy. He was an avid gardener; loved fishing; and was a jack-of-all-trades. Joseph also liked tinkering with cars and was always fixing things.

He is Preceded in death by his beloved wife of 34 years Frances Rebecca Pierce Thagard, his son Glenn Thagard, grandsons Travis Thagard and Aiden DuRant, and siblings, Lucille Thagard Culverhouse, Edna Thagard Tate, and James F. Thagard.

Over the years he watched over his family as it grew. He leaves behind his children, Wayne Thagard (Debi), Becky DuRant, Victor Thagard (Dottie), and Beth Thagard. Grandchildren, Gary Thagard (lauren), Jay DuRant (Alix), Tyler DuRant (Ashley), Will DuRant, and Allison Tackett (Travis). Great-Grandchildren, Conner Joseph DuRant, Collin DuRant, Caleb DuRant, Ryker Tackett, Taylor Thagard, Rhian Mathe (Chris), Kase Thagard, Campbell Miller, and Harper Miller. Great-Great-Grandchildren, Klaria Jo Thagard, Paisley Mae Thagard, and Kashtyn Mathe.

There will be a Funeral Service with Military Honors at Culley’s MeadowWood Funeral Home, 1737 Riggins Road, Tallahassee, Florida on June 8, 2026 at 3:00pm.

In lieu of flowers please make donations to Disabled American Veterans (DAV).