It is with a heavy heart that we announce the peaceful passing of our beloved grandfather, father and friend, Ronald James Thigpen. Funeral services for Mr. Thigpen, 81, of Houston, will be held Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Shafer Funeral Home of Lufkin with Pastor Charlie Lambardino officiating. Interment will follow at Fielders Cemetery.

          Mr. Thigpen was born on October 11, 1944, in Lufkin, Texas, to the late Harvey S. Thigpen and Maurine (Dickerson) Thigpen, and passed away Sunday, January 4, 2026, in Houston.

          Ron married his darling, Linda Thigpen, and together they built a life rooted in commitment, resilience, and love. He proudly served his country in the United States Army. Mr. Thigpen underwent bootcamp at Fort Polk, Louisiana, where he completed 8 weeks of basic training, subsequently being stationed at Fort Eustis, Virginia for a duration of 7 months. On June 29, 1967, he was deployed to Vietnam, where he was assigned to Camron Bay for approximately 6 months. Following this, he relocated to Delot, Vietnam, where he contributed to the construction of barracks and roads in the Lang Biang mountain range. He always held dear the memories of the friends he lost in the war, who never returned home.  Upon returning home, his commitment to service continued as he and his wife became foster parents, opening their hearts and home to children in need. This journey ultimately led to the adoption of their two daughters.

          He found his greatest joy in the quiet of the woods and on open water, where hunting and fishing were not just hobbies but lifelong passions. Whether it was early morning in a deer stand or casting a line, he cherished the simple moments nature gave him. Ron will be remembered for his wonderful laugh, sense of humor, and the quiet wisdom he shared, often without saying a word.

          Above all else, he adored his grandchildren and great grandchildren. Time spent with them was his greatest joy, whether he was sharing stories, sneaking them ice cream at bedtime, or simply watching them laugh. He was their biggest supporter, their teacher, and their safe place.

           In honor of his faithful service to our nation, military honors will be rendered, recognizing his dedication and sacrifice as a Vietnam veteran. His service to country and family will never be forgotten.

            He is survived by daughter, Monica Morris of Houston; daughter and son-in-law, Kimberly and Fred Vineyard of Huntington, Texas; granddaughter and husband, Brook and Justin Schoppe of Montgomery, Texas; granddaughter, Breanna Morris of Houston; granddaughter and husband, Katelynn and Dillon Glawson of Huntington, Texas; granddaughter, Brittany Morris of Houston; granddaughter, Jamie Vineyard of Huntington, Texas; granddaughter Aubrea Vineyard of Huntington, Texas; great-grandchildren, Wesley, James and Ella Kate Schoppe of Montgomery, Texas; and great-grandchildren, Paizlee, Bentley, and Huxley Glawson of Huntington, Texas; sister and brother-in-law Pat and James Wash; sister and brother-in-law, Nelda and Jack Briggs; and brother and sister-in-law Terry and Mary Thigpen. 

          He was preceded in death by his wife, Linda Thigpen; parents, Harvey and Maurine Thigpen; and brothers, Alvis Thigpen; Donald Thigpen; Harvey Joe Thigpen.

          Visitation will be held from 1:00 p.m. to 2:00 p.m., Sunday, January 11, 2026, at Shafer Funeral Home.

          Shafer Funeral Home, Lufkin directors.