Students release balloons in memory of administrator killed in accident

OWINGSVILLE, Ky. (WTVQ)- Students at each Bath County school exited a little early Tuesday as they met to remember a long-time educator.

Police say Jerry Thatcher was pulled over in an emergency lane off exit 133 of I-64 when an SUV hit and killed him last week. Thatcher, a 34-year employee of the Bath County school system was an avid motorcyclist but was best known for his care of Bath County students.

“He was such a positive role model and ambassador for lifelong learning in his career. You left every conversation from Mr. Thatcher being better,” says Superintendent Harvey Tackett.

Thatcher retired from the school system as principal of Crossroads Elementary.

Tackett says there will not be school Wednesday as Thatcher is laid to rest. Motorcyclists are expected to escort him from the funeral home to his final resting place.