Joel Howard Thayer passed peacefully at the Presbyterian Communities of SC with his loving wife of 56 years by his side. He is predeceased by his parents, Howard and Ruth Thayer and brother, Peter Thayer. He is survived by his wife Barbara Thayer, sister Ann Nehrig, her husband Norman Shepard and nephew Solomon Nehrig and his wife Mary.

Joel was born in Galion, Ohio and in his teen years was raised in Deland, Florida. In the 1960s he worked for RCA on a missile tracking ship during the early Gemini flights. He attended Texas Lutheran College and then Stetson University where he earned his BA Degree.

Before going on to graduate school, he married his long-time friend, Barbara, who he had met at a Lutheran Church camp in Florida when teenagers. He earned a MS Degree and a PhD at Florida State University. He taught at the University of Richmond for four years and the University of North Alabama for two years.

In 1979 he moved to Florence, SC where he taught in the Sociology Department at Francis Marion University and was Chair of that department for many years.  In addition, over the years Joel was involved in several committees and a university accreditation by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. He retired as Professor Emeritus from Francis Marion University in 2012.

Joel and Barbara were among those who founded Cross and Crown Lutheran Church. He had been a member of various committees, past treasurer and past president of the congregation.

Joel liked to travel and explore new places. He and his wife visited 49 states and five continents and often reminisced about the interesting and exciting times they had.

His passion was music as he sang in The Masterworks Choir for 42 years and served as Chair of the Board of Directors for many years. He also sang in the Chancel Choir of Central United Methodist Church for four years.

A memorial service will be held Sunday, May 4, 4 pm at Cross and Crown Lutheran Church.

The family asks that in lieu of flowers, gifts be made to Cross and Crown Lutheran Church, 3123 West Palmetto Street, Florence, SC 29501.