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Thomas Edward Fletcher, lovingly known to many as “Coach Fletch,” passed away on May 18, 2026, at the age of 73. Born on February 23, 1953, Thomas was the son of Robert J. Fletcher and Dorothy Brown of Canton, Ohio. He was born and raised in Canton and graduated from Lehman High School, Class of 1971. Thomas also spent many meaningful years living in Clearwater, Florida, where he became a familiar and respected figure in the community.
Thomas dedicated over thirty years of his life as a property manager and spent nearly all of his adult life working as a skilled handyman, always willing to lend a hand to anyone in need. Whether fixing something broken, helping a neighbor, or offering advice from experience, he was the kind of man people could count on without hesitation.
Outside of work, Thomas found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved painting, cheering on the Cleveland Indians and the Cleveland Browns, and spending time around the game of baseball. In the Clearwater and Tampa youth baseball community, he was affectionately known as “Coach Fletch,” a mentor and positive influence to many young athletes whose lives he touched both on and off the field.
Thomas was a living reminder that happiness is not measured by material wealth, but by kindness, generosity, laughter, and the willingness to help others. He may not have chased riches, but he achieved something far greater — a life filled with purpose, friendships, and love. He taught those around him that character matters more than possessions and that true success comes from the impact you leave on people’s hearts.
He is survived by his son, Justin Thomas Fletcher of Jacobsburg, Ohio; his daughter, Natalie Watson of Tifton, Georgia; and two brothers. He was preceded in death by his brother, Mark Fletcher, and his former wife, Kimberly Fletcher, who passed away in 2022. Though life took them on different paths, they shared many years together and built a family whose love continues on through their children and the memories they created together.
Though Coach Fletch has rounded home and crossed safely into eternal rest, the lessons he taught, the memories he created, and the love he gave will continue to echo through the lives of everyone fortunate enough to know him. His game may be over here on Earth, but his legacy will forever remain in the hearts of his family, friends, and players.
Memorial services for Thomas Edward Fletcher will be announced at a later date in both Canton, Ohio, and Clearwater, Florida.
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