Obituary of Willetta A. Thatcher

Willetta A. Thatcher, formerly of Bethlehem, PA passed away Wednesday morning, April 6, 2016 at the Episcopal Church Home in Rochester, NY. Willetta was born in Mr. Carmel, PA, December 11, 1918, daughter of the late William and Lydia Hildenbrand, and stepfather Albert Bixler of Higins, PA. She was married 62 years to Franklin R. Thatcher, who died in 2005. She graduated from Allentown School of Nursing and enlisted in the Army Nurse Corps, serving her country during WWII in the European theater. After an honorable discharge, Willetta worked at St. Lukes Hospital and later in the Casselberry Pediatric office in Bethlehem. While residing in Bethlehem PA for 60 years, she was an active member of Bethany UCC, serving as Sunday School Teacher, member of the Peanut Makers, Alter Guild, and bell choir and a life member of Church Women United. After moving to Henrietta, NY in 2006, Willetta was a member of Henrietta UCC. She is survived by a son, Dale Thatcher and his wife Sonery of Damascus, MD, a daughter, Judith Green and her husband, Joseph of Henrietta, NY; four grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. Willetta’s family would like to thank the entire staff of the Episcopal Senior Life Communities for their loving care. Interment will be private at Cedar Hill Memorial Cemetery in Allentown, PA. Contributions in Willetta’s name may be made to the Henrietta United Church of Christ, 1400 Lehigh Station Rd., Henrietta, NY 14467. Home Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Birthplace Mt. Carmel, PA Donations Contributions in Willetta’s name may be made to the: Henrietta United Church of Christ 1400 Lehigh Station Rd. Henrietta, NY 14467.