Thad received his Bachelor of Science Degree from the University of Georgia and Master of Education Degree from the University of West Florida.
He had a difficult childhood and entered the military at age 17. He retired from 31 years of U.S. Naval Service as a Lieutenant Commander, having served three tours in Vietnam as a photo recognizance navigator.
Thad lived a fabulously adventurous life. He enjoyed traveling the world, Pensacola Runners Club, Pensacola Little Theater, Sanger Theater, and Florida Ski Council. He volunteered with the National Park system with the Turtle Watch program, and was a faithful member of Olive Baptist Church. He went on mission trips with his church, and was a member of multiple military organizations.
He made friends easily and enjoyed conversing on a wide array of topics. He was kind, thoughtful, and invested in friendships.
Thad is preceded in death by his parents, Albert J. Kopec and Stella Donaldson; his first wife, Millie Farmer Kopec; and his second wife Christine Atkins. He is survived by children, Thad (Vicki) Kopec, Dawn (Charles) Ray, Christopher (Alicja) Atkins, and Christina (Lou) Ricardo; and grandchildren, Ben (Kristin) Kopec, Bradley (Janet) Ray, Elisabeth (Ryne) Harrison, Kate (Joshua) Vasquez, Karla Atkins, Olivia Atkins, Christie (John) Stevens, Christopher (Kerry) Ricardo, Courtney (Sean), and Caroline (Ryan) Fisher. He also has 13 great-grandchildren with two on the way. In addition, he is survived by his older brother, Johnny (Ruth) Kopec, and half-sisters, Frances Joy Kopec and Gerrie Kopec.
Visitation will be on Sunday, July 21, 2024 at Valleydale Church in Birmingham from 2-3 p.m., followed by a Celebration of Life Service at 3 p.m. at the church. Another celebration will be held in Pensacola, Thad's home of over 40 years, at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to Samaritan’s Purse, www.samaritanspurse.org. Please designate donations for the general fund or for Heal our Patriots.
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