Fr. Roy Thaden, SJ, who spent 47 years in a variety of ministries in Zambia, Africa, died February 17, 2026, at Sacred Heart Jesuit Center in Los Gatos, California. He was 83 years of age and a Jesuit for 65 years.
Originally a member of the Oregon Province, he volunteered for missionary work in Zambia, then a new joint mission of the Oregon and the South Poland provinces, returning to the U.S. for theology studies and occasional home visits.
Roy W. Thaden was born January 22, 1943, in Tacoma, Washington, the son of Robert A. Thaden and Stella Farley Thaden. He graduated from Bellarmine College Preparatory in Tacoma, Washington, in 1961 and entered the Jesuit novitiate at Sheridan, Oregon, to study for the priesthood. Following his novitiate and studies in classics and philosophy, he prepared for his missionary work with a year of language study in Malawi. This was followed by a two-year period of teaching English and serving as dean at Mpima Minor Seminary in Kabwe, Zambia.
He returned to the United States in 1970 for theological studies at the Jesuit School of Theology in Berkeley, California; his ordination to the priesthood in St. James Cathedral in Seattle on June 29, 1973; and a year of studying English literature at Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington.
Returning to Zambia in 1974, he ministered in numerous places as needed. In 1977 he became a member of the Zambia Province and was named superior of the Jesuit community in the capital, Lusaka, while serving as Catholic chaplain at the University of Zambia, where he was instrumental in building the interdenominational Christian Centre.
In 1986 he was named director of Jesuit vocations. Fr. Thaden was involved with Jesuit formation at Xavier House, the Jesuit novitiate in Lusaka, in a variety of roles: English teacher, spiritual director, rector and, most importantly, director of novices from 1996 to 2007. In addition to his work with Jesuits, he was the spiritual director for many women religious and priests and directed a great number of eight and 30-day retreats.
Fr. Thaden also worked in the media as a producer of Catholic radio and television productions, first at Yatsani Studios (FM radio) and, later, at Loyola Productions in Zambia (2007-2009). His last assignment was superior of a Jesuit community in Lusaka (from 2009) and as chaplain at the University of Zambia (from 2011).
Already in failing health, he returned to the United States in 2019, first to Bellarmine Prep in Tacoma and then to Sacred Heart Jesuit Center in Los Gatos in 2022.
Fr. Thaden was known for his warm enthusiasm and ready smile. He found it difficult to say no and took on a variety of tasks when asked. Prayer, reflection and community life were important to him, and he was placed in positions of importance. In retirement, even with his memory diminished, he enjoyed community activities in the art studio, poetry readings or at the Bingo table.
Fr. Thaden is survived by his sister, Sister Elaine Thaden, O.S.F., of Aston, Pennsylvania, and many nieces, nephews and cousins. He was predeceased by his brothers Robert, Lawrence and James.
The Funeral Mass will be held Friday, February 27, 2026, at 11:15 a.m. at the chapel at Sacred Heart Jesuit Center, 300 College Avenue, Los Gatos, CA 95030. Inurnment will be at Mount St. Michael’s Cemetery in Spokane at a later date. View the livestream.
Donations in memory of Fr. Thaden may be made to the Jesuits West Province of the Society of Jesus, P.O. Box 68, Los Gatos, CA 95031, or to a charity of your choosing.
