BURGAW — Thaddeus entered into the presence of the Lord Sunday June 28, 2026 at his home with his loving family surrounding him.
He was born May 14, 1943 in Bladen County, the son of Cecil Gladston Squires and Margaret Bigford Squires. In addition to his parents and stepmother, Viola Phillips, he was preceded in death by brothers, Leon Squires and Norman Squires; stepbrothers, Clifford Reynolds and Dennis Davis; and stepsisters, Hattie Malpass and Joan Gore.
Thaddeus was a member of Haw Bluff Church Baptist Church where he regularly attended while his health allowed him to go.
He was a Millwright for Wright Chemical Corporation for over fifty years. Thaddeus was also a dedicated farmer who took great pride in tending the land he farmed and taking care of his livestock. For many years Thaddeus would do welding jobs on the side.
Survivors include his wife of 57 years, Patricia Squires; twin daughters, Toni Ward (Mitchell) of Whiteville and Teri Ward (Shad) of Kelly; son, Matthew Squires (Lisa) of Kelly; grandsons, Mitchell Ward Jr. of Whiteville, Jesse Smith (Amber), Payton Squires, and Mason Squires all of Kelly; granddaughters, Andrea Batten (Ethan) of Hallsboro and Nicole Bassett (Isaac) of Leland; great grandchildren, Alice Batten, Conner Smith and Maverick Smith; sister, Virginia Pridgen; brothers, Eddie Squires and Ray Squires (Mona); stepbrother, Darrel Davis; and many nieces and nephews.
Thaddeus was a devoted husband, loving father, cherished grandfather, and loyal friend to many. He found great joy in working the land he loved, caring for his farm, tending hay fields, raising livestock, and planting corn and soybeans each season. His dedication, hard work, and deep appreciation for rural life were evident in everything he did. In addition to farming, Thaddeus generously shared his welding skills with family and friends for many years, always willing to lend a helping hand. He will be remembered for his kindness, strong work ethic, generous spirit, and the lasting impact he had on all who knew him.
The family would like to especially thank Lower Cape Fear LifeCare staff for their comfort and care and Dr Jeffery Kornegay for all his continuous excellent care that he provided for Thaddeus. The family would also like to thank a very special friend, Katie Moore of Currie for the continuous gesture of kindness throughout the past few months.
Shared memories and condolences may be sent to the family here.
