Brenda Mae Thacker

Brenda Mae Padgett Thacker, age 80, of Nelson, Georgia, passed away on Tuesday, August 10, 2026. Born in Jasper, Georgia, on July 18, 1946, she was the beloved daughter of Clara Mae Pendley and Edward Padgett.

Brenda is survived by her devoted husband of 63 years, Benny Thacker; her children, Benjie Thacker, Tammy (Ricky) Cox, Tina Thacker Adams, and Buddy Thacker; and her grandchildren, D.J. (Melissa) Walker, Jessica (Thomas) Shipman, Justin (Tracy) Thacker, Lisa (Tony) Jones, Brittney (Taylor Scott) Adams, Breanna (Britton) Brock, and Dawson Thacker. She is also lovingly remembered by her 15 great‑grandchildren and her great‑great grandson. Brenda leaves behind her siblings, Sue Young, Tunnie (Shirley) Padgett, and Eddie (Judy) Padgett. She is preceded in death by her parents Clara Mae and Edward Padgett; brother Charles Padgett and great granddaughter Harper Jones.

A woman of many talents and endless curiosity, Brenda loved painting, sewing, crocheting, and genealogy. Known throughout Nelson and the surrounding communities as the “Hometown Historian,” she dedicated countless hours to preserving stories, memories, and local heritage. She was a mentor, teacher, and inspiration to many, always willing to share her knowledge and her heart.

Brenda enjoyed traveling with her family, camping and hiking at Long Swamp Creek, photography, gardening, cooking, arrowhead hunting, and countless other outdoor adventures. Her home was filled with creativity, warmth, and the comforting rhythm of her favorite show, Days of Our Lives, which she watched faithfully.

The family will receive friends at Cagle Funeral Home on Thursday, August 13, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m., and on Friday, August 14, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. until the funeral service at 4:00 p.m. in the Robert A. Cagle Memorial Chapel, with Rev. Thomas Shipman officiating. Interment will follow at Bethesda Baptist Church Cemetery in Nelson, Georgia.

“Goodnight, Sweet Dreams, God Bless You, I Love You.”

Cagle Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Brenda Thacker.