Col. Robert Hugh Thrasher (Ret.), U.S. Army, passed away April 3, 2017, in Rock Hill, South Carolina, after a long and valiant battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Robert was 76 years old.
He is survived by his loving wife of 46 years, Virginia T. Thrasher, his sons James R. Crippen, Michael S. Crippen and wife Elizabeth, and Eric. J. Thrasher and wife Abigail. He was preceded in death last year by his son LTC. Robert H. Thrasher Jr. (Ret.) U.S. Army. Robert was blessed with his grandchildren Ashlen Thrasher, Gabrielle Walker (Crippen), Delilah Mung, Megan Thrasher, Kristen Thrasher, Teller Crippen, Baxley Crippen, Robert Scoville Crippen, and his great- granddaughter Opal Caroline Thrasher.
Robert was born in Eustis, Florida, Oct. 1, 1940. He was raised in Orlando, Florida, by his parents Robert Carter Thrasher and Katherine Waters Thrasher. Robert attended The Citadel, The Military College of South Carolina, where he distinguished himself as a member of the Junior Sword Drill, and as a Cadet CPT., H Company Commander. Upon his graduation, Class of 1962, Robert was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. He served with valor and distinction during 2 tours in Vietnam, where he was a Company Commander, Detachment B-57, 5th Special Forces Group (Green Beret). As a highly decorated Military Intelligence Officer, Robert continued his military career in multiple high level assignments, including the Pentagon, Defense Intelligence Agency, NATO ( AFSOUTH, Naples Italy), and General Staff of the Army, Washington DC. Robert retired after 30 years of Active Duty service in 1992, and retired to Mt. Dora, Florida with his wife Virginia. They relocated to Rock Hill, South Carolina, in 2006.
Robert will be remembered by family and friends as a loving husband, a caring father and grandfather, and a loyal and stalwart friend. His commitment and devotion to duty were unswerving, and his gentle spirit and inner strength will live on in all of those whom he touched. The family requests that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to local Hospice organizations, or to the Azheimer’s Foundation of America.
A memorial service will be held at Oakland Avenue Presbyterian Church, Rock Hill, South Carolina, on Saturday, April 8 2017, at 11:00 AM, conducted by the Reverends Jane Sumney and Jeff Bryan. He will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery, with full Military Honors, at a date to be determined.
Posted in: From family
Posted on: 2017-04-03
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