Thurman “Jay Bird” McKinley Tackett, 63, died November 12, 2010 after a courageous 12 month battle with cancer. Thurman passed away peacefully at his home with his family by his side in Marion, Ohio.
He was born October 29, 1947 in Jenkins, Kentucky to Frank Harvey and Leitha (Ray) Tackett. Thurman was one of 16 children.
He married Pamela Jo Tackett in Wise, Virginia February 23, 1970.
He was a horse trainer for 35 years, U.S. Trotting Association member, and Horseman Association member. His interests included family, horses, reading, Cleveland Browns, and Kentucky Wildcats.
He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Billy, Donald Ray, and Ulysses Grant Tackett; and sisters, Lexie Lee Ambrose, and Patricia Lou Phelps.
Thurman is survived by his wife of 40 years, Pamela Jo Tackett; three sons, Thurman “Fuzz” McKinley Tackett, Jr., Terry Lee (Julie Ann) Tackett, and Tony Joe (Joyle Cecilia) Tackett; treasured grandchildren, Cierra Tackett, Terry “TJ” Jason Tackett, Lee Ann Sadie Tackett, and Gabriela Jo Tackett; and step-grandchildren, Cody Patrick Foy, Caleb James Foy, and Tyler Jacob Foy.
Thurman will forever be remembered by his devoted brothers and sisters: Dorsey Ann Smallwood, Jack Tackett, James “Chum” Tackett, Grayson Tackett, Selena Sue Gilbert, and Mary Nell Frazier, along with countless friends and family whom were blessed to know him.
Thurman touched the lives of many people with his smile, generosity, and his trademark sense of humor.
Friends and family are invited to attend a viewing service on Tuesday, November 16, 2010 from 2-6 PM at Boyd-Born Funeral Home. Burial will be Thursday, November 18, at 1 PM at Tackett Cemetery in Jenkins, Kentucky.
Polly and Craft Funeral Home in Jenkins, Kentucky will be handling arrangements in Kentucky.
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