Ralph Thomas Hatcher

Ralph Thomas Hatcher, 38, born April 17th, 1984 to Sue Anne (Lex) and Ralph Eugene Hatcher, passed away suddenly after a brief illness the afternoon of December 28, 2022. Thomas, or “Baby,” as his biological and military families called him, was a proud Marine, father, son, and brother. Thomas graduated from Bishop Chatard High School in 2002 and enlisted with the Marine Corps in 2006.

Thomas served as a Combat Engineer, a Rifle Expert, in the Marine Corps until 2012, during which time he was deployed to Iraq. He also completed missions and training in Mozambique, London, and the Dominican Republic. Thomas was a fierce Patriot – fearless, and convicted in his beliefs of God and country.

Thomas was a natural guardian. A protector. Strong, determined, gentle, and complex. He was a jack-of-all-trades. If ever you were in need, Thomas would be the first one to show up and help with a Jeep full of tools and his hair freshly faded. He was humble, quiet, and knew how to love in a way most never learn.

Thomas found his calling and source of true happiness as a father. His pride rested in his four surviving children, Tyler, Teagan, Tatum, and Rafe Hatcher.

Thomas is preceded in death by his grandparents, John & Theresa Lex and Ralph & Anna Hatcher, and by his father, Ralph Eugene Hatcher, MD. He is survived by his mother, Sue Lex Hatcher, his brother, Wesley (Camille) Hatcher, sisters Catherine (Adam) Walden and Colleen (Justin) Groves. He leaves behind the love of his life, Candace Ryall, ten nieces and nephews, and many aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Too many to name, Thomas is also survived by his many Marine Corps brothers.

Visitation and services will be held at Flanner Buchanan – Oaklawn Memorial Gardens (Conner Suite), 9700 Allisonville Road, Indianapolis. Visitation will be held Saturday, January 7th from 1-4pm (EST). Funeral services will be held Sunday, January 8th at 2pm (EST). Interment will be held on Monday, January 9th at 11am (CST)at Camp Butler National Cemetery in Springfield, Illinois. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hope for the Warriors and the Resilient Warrior Program, MSC 7613, PO Box 415000, Nashville, TN 37241.  Please make note that it is in memory of Ralph Thomas Hatcher.

Online condolences may be shared by visiting www.flannerbuchanan.com.