The community of Tunkhannock is preparing to say farewell to the Thatcher family, a beloved quartet who were tragically killed in a car crash. Their funeral will take place at their local church, where they were actively involved in various capacities.
Peter and Sandra Thatcher, both 45, along with their children Noah, 11, and Layla, 10, lost their lives in a devastating accident last Saturday on Rock Mountain Drive in Gibson Township, Susquehanna County.
Support for Tunkhannock Community
The Tunkhannock Area Intermediate Center will open its library from 5 to 7 p.m. on Wednesday, Sept. 2, to provide support to families, staff, and community members affected by the loss of the Thatchers. “Superintendent Paul Dougherty said” in a social media announcement.
Representatives from Robinson Counseling Center and Children’s Service Center will be on hand to support anyone in need, whether adult or child, according to Dougherty.
“It’s been a very difficult week. The tragic loss of the Thatcher family continues to be felt throughout our schools and community. Our thoughts and prayers remain focused on that family,” Dougherty expressed.
The accident occurred on the grounds of a Bible camp cherished by the Thatcher children.
A public viewing is scheduled from 4 to 8 p.m. on Friday at Marcho, Sheldon and Kukuchka Funeral Home, 73 W. Tioga St., Tunkhannock. The funeral service will commence at 10 a.m. on Saturday at the Tunkhannock Assembly of God Church, 181 Bridge St.
The church addressed the loss on its website, “Lord, our hearts are broken as we grieve the tragic loss of this precious family. We cannot always understand why such heartbreaking things happen, but we choose to trust You and hold onto our faith in You.”
Progress on Crash Investigation
On Monday, Pennsylvania State Police confirmed there was “nothing suspicious” about the crash. Trooper Robert Urban stated on Tuesday that the investigation had no new developments to report.
Acting Susquehanna County Coroner Jessica Chiaramonte concluded that the deaths were accidental, resulting from traumatic injuries sustained in the crash. Autopsies were completed on Tuesday for all four family members.
The tragic incident occurred on the property of Rock Mountain Bible Camp, as noted in a statement from the camp. “Their immediate family, our campground community, and the camp staff are grieving the tragic loss of these precious souls. We are lifting the family and friends of the Thatchers to God in prayer during this difficult time,” read the camp’s message.
The statement expressed gratitude for the swift action of guests and staff who assisted until emergency services arrived.
A Tribute to the Thatchers
The funeral home’s website published obituaries detailing the lives and contributions of each family member:
Sandra was employed at McDonald’s and actively supported the Ronald McDonald House program. She was a Sunday school teacher and Christian education director at her church, and participated in the annual Thanksgiving dinner at the Seven Loaves Soup Kitchen.
Peter served as a sergeant at the Wyoming County Correctional Facility and was known for his volunteer work at the church.
Noah, a 6th grader at Tunkhannock Intermediate Center, was proud of his role as an usher at the church. He loved singing, attending Bible camp, and was fond of LEGOs and the Pokémon character Pikachu.
Layla, in 5th grade at the same school, was passionate about dance and music, and enjoyed outdoor activities like fishing and swimming. She also liked painting, sea turtles, and collecting rubber ducks.
In lieu of flowers, the family requested donations be made in their name to the BGMC (Boys and Girls Missionary Challenge), 1445 North Boonville Ave., Springfield, MO 65802.
