Thaddeus “Thad” R. Stikeleather, 85, of Statesville, N.C., passed away on Monday, March 11, 2024. He was the husband of the late Judy Little Stikeleather and the son of the late Charles E. and Maude Roseman Stikeleather.
Thad was a long-time member of Monticello Methodist Church and was a graduate of Celeste Henkel High School. He retired from the maintenance department of the Iredell-Statesville School System. He enjoyed bird watching and previously served with the Monticello Volunteer Fire Department.
In addition to his parents, Thad was preceded in death by his wife Judy; his son, Tony Stikeleather (his wife Christine survives); brother, Charles Stikeleather; and sisters, Louis Benfield and Gladys Johnson.
He is survived by three sons, Tim Stikeleather (Aliza) of Statesville, Chris Stikeleather (Cindy) of Statesville, and Kevin Stikeleather (Kathy) of Statesville; and one daughter, Kimberly Stikeleather of Statesville; eleven grandchildren, Adam Stikeleather (Jessi), Morgan Whaley (Charlie), Hannah Elsenboss (Craig), Kala Bryden (Robert), Sarah Stikeleather, Bo Stikeleather (Heather), Bethy Worley (Zack), Koda Stikeleather, Angelica Rodriguez, Ashley Muncy (Steven), Caleb Anderson (Carrie); and 13 great-grandchildren.
A Celebration of Life service will be held at Monticello Methodist Church, 308 Island Ford Road, Statesville, N.C., on Saturday, March 16, 2024. The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 p.m. with the celebration of life immediately following with Rev. Jill Rheinhart officiating.
In lieu of flower memorials can be made to Monticello Methodist Church, 308 Island Ford Road, Statesville, N.C.
Troutman Funeral Home is serving the family.
I worked with Thad at Beauty Maid Mills for a long time. He was so kind and helpful. He talked about Judy and his family. My prayers are with you all. We were blessed to have him as a friend.
We talked at rehab. He was a sweetheart. I pray he was allowed to see Sarah before he died. Pat M