Thomas E. Fletcher 73, also know as “Red Dog” and “Coach Fletch” of Canton, Ohio and Clearwater, Florida passed away unexpectedly on May 18, 2026 at his residence in Canton.

Donations are being requested to help defray the costs of his final expenses. He was suffering from several health issues which exhausted his savings. Wackerly Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements and Tom’s son Justin Fletcher will receive all donations directly.

Tom was a painter, a trade he learned from his father. In his younger days he painted many of the historic homes in NW Canton. He always hired his former classmates teaching them the trade. Tom was also active in youth and adult sports in Canton as a participant, coach and official.

Tom moved to Clearwater where he began a thirty year career managing several apartment buildings. He became an expert in building maintenance. He continued his residential painting business and continued officiating baseball, softball and basketball. When his son Justin was born he became involved in youth sports as a coach and mentor eventually becoming an assistant coach for the Clearwater High School baseball team. He also served on the City of Clearwater Recreation Committee.

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 always felt his most important role was that of a parent to son Justin and daughter Natalie. He was extremely proud of them.