As a young teenager in his hometown of Owensboro, Kentucky, Dr. Ralph Thacker knew a healthcare career would be right for him. His early interest in science, especially biology and nature, and his love of art, such as drawing, painting, ceramics, landscaping, and even taxidermy, made dentistry a natural fit for his talents.
He earned a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in biology with a minor in chemistry, from Murray State University in 1977. He then earned his Doctor of Medical Dentistry degree from the University of Louisville School of Dentistry in Louisville, Kentucky, in 1982. Immediately after graduation, he served as a dental officer in the United States Air Force Dental Corps at Minot Air Force Base in North Dakota for three years before going into private practice in 1985.
He is also a long-standing member of the American Dental Association, the Kentucky Dental Association, and a member of the American Academy of Clear Aligners.
Dr. Thacker attributes much of his success to his wife Diane, who has supported the dental practice in so many ways. They have two grown children, Bryan and Stephanie, who are both married and living in Kentucky. They have five granddaughters and one grandson.
Giving back to the community he shares with his patients and calls home is very important to Dr. Thacker. He has been a member of the McLean Chamber of Commerce since 1985 and is a past two-term president of the organization. In an effort to help the community where he works and lives, Dr. Thacker formed the Livermore Enhancement Foundation to assist with economic development and other community improvements. Most recently, he served as director of the Livermore Kentucky Trail Town task force that helped Livermore become the 25th Kentucky Trail Town in the Commonwealth in 2022 with the purpose of attracting people to bike and paddle our local land and water trails and appreciate the natural resources, while experiencing the fitness benefits along the way. He and Diane serve monthly at the Christian Dental Mission in Owensboro, Kentucky, a mission that provides free basic dental care to those with financial need. They have also served on international dental missions in Vietnam and Honduras. Their Christian faith being central to their lives and career, they have been long-term active members of Buck Creek Baptist Church.
When he is not caring for patients, pursuing continuing education, or donating his time to charitable causes, Dr. Thacker enjoys most forms of outdoor adventure, including kayaking, backpacking, biking, tennis, and swimming. He also loves spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren, and traveling.
