Thomas Lee Hadder

HADDER, Thomas L., “Tom,” 82 of Vandalia, Ohio, passed away July 25, 2025, in Dayton, Ohio. Tom was born on November 11, 1942, in Troy, Ohio, to the late Jack Raymond Hadder and Betty (McCroskey) Hadder. Tom was a lifetime resident of Vandalia, often referred to as “The Legend.” Tom found the love of his life, Jeri Rafal Pace, to form the perfect Tom and Jeri duo. His caring, fun-loving nature also blessed him with a wide circle of friends. In his younger days, he was proud to work at his family’s Virginia Cafeteria. He enjoyed golf, fishing, hunting, coaching youth sports, and riding with his Harley buddies. One of his most beloved pastimes was watching his favorite teams: the Cleveland Browns and The Ohio State Buckeyes. Tom also looked forward to wintering in Florida, where he cherished a new group of friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his brothers, Eddie and Jack “J.R.” Hadder. Tom is survived by his partner, Jeri Rafal Pace, 3 children, and 4 grandchildren. He enjoyed close relationships with his daughter, Melissa Hadder; Jeri’s daughter and son-in-law, Jessica Moss and Kyle Moulton; his grandson, Jordan Hadder; and his granddaughter, Lilly Hadder. People who meant the world to Tom and treated him like a father were Dave Gerhard, Steve Verdes, Mike Hadder, Keith Cornelison, and Todd North. His lifelong friends, Gary Gaylor and Ron Zimmer, were always by his side.

Graveside services to honor Tom will be held at 11:00 am, Saturday, August 16 at Polk Grove Cemetery with Pastor Russ Harris officiating. Lunch will follow in the Fellowship Hall at Polk Grove Church. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the Wee Aviators Football Program, 8571 N. Dixie Dr., Dayton, OH 45414 in Tom’s memory.