La Grange - Luke Benjamin Thacker, 17, left his earthly home for his heavenly one on Sunday morning, July 21, 2024. Luke was born in Haywood County to David and Dana Thacker on March 31, 2007.

Luke's 17 years were full of fun, family and friends. While living in the mountains of Robbinsville, NC, he enjoyed camping with church friends, exploring the mountains, and swimming in beautiful Lake Santeetlah. During teenhood, Luke was introduced to the great sport of golf. From that moment on, Luke's love of the game grew. When the family moved to La Grange, NC, Luke enjoyed playing at many excellent courses. Golf was Luke's hobby, but Jesus and family were Luke's loves.

At the age of five, Luke trusted in Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection for his salvation. As he grew in his understanding of God's grace, Luke's love and dedication to his Savior continued to mature. Luke spent his final days surrounded by family. He encouraged them with the words, "When you ask, 'Why?', remember that God has a plan. We may not understand it now, but one day we will."

A service of love and remembrance will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 27, 2024, at Immanuel Baptist Church, Kinston, NC, with Pastor Ben Thacker officiating. For those unable to attend the in-person service, an online stream can be accessed at www.followingbyfaith.com. The family will receive friends for a visitation from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on Friday, July 26, 2024, at the Kennedy Home Gymnasium.

Luke is survived by his loving parents, David and Dana Thacker; siblings Melissa Thacker, Andrew Thacker, and Anna Thacker; grandparents Norman and Kay Davis, Mark Thacker, Lisa and Mick Rafter; aunts and uncles Mark and Holly Gentry and Ben and Jess Thacker; cousins Scott Gentry, Wyatt Thacker, Josie Thacker, Raelyn Thacker, Abby Thacker, and Taylor Gentry; along with lifelong friends and church family. Also left to treasure his memory is an amazing team of medical staff at UNC Health, Chapel Hill.

In April 2023, Luke was diagnosed with osteosarcoma, a rare and aggressive bone cancer. He underwent extensive treatment in Chapel Hill. However, the cancer metastasized to his lungs, which ended his earthly journey. He is now cancer and pain-free in the presence of His Savior. In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution in Luke's memory to the Osteosarcoma Institute (https://osinst.org/donate/). Flower arrangements are also welcomed. Services are entrusted to Rouse Funeral Home, La Grange. Online condolences may be expressed at www.rousefh.com.