We’re excited to welcome Amy Thrasher to the Paulding Putnam team! Amy joins us as part of our facilities team, helping keep our workplace clean, healthy, and welcoming for employees and members. 
Here’s a Q&A to help everyone get to know the newest member of our Paulding Putnam family!
Tell us a bit about your life, family, and where you’re from.
“I live in Payne, Ohio. I am the only deaf adult in my hearing family. I attended several public schools growing up, then transferred in 7th grade to the Ohio School for the Deaf in Columbus, where I spent six years. 
I’ve been married to my husband, Ed Thrasher, for 25 years—we celebrated our anniversary last June. Ed is hard of hearing and communicates through both speech and sign language. Together, we have five children—two stepsons and three daughters: Dustin, Nathan, Carrie, Ashley, and Emily. I also taught my three girls basic sign language when they were very young.
We are blessed with six grandchildren (two boys and four girls), with another baby girl expected in 2026. I love spending time with my family. 
I am a Christian and believe in God. I’m a member of Canton Baptist Temple, even though it’s about three hours from my home. I also attend a deaf small group Bible study through Zoom with an interpreter every Sunday, plus Bible study on Wednesday nights.
I’ve been involved with deaf friends singing Psalms in ASL on stage at church for the past four years. We also have one Rottweiler and one outside cat. I’ve enjoyed doing crafts as a hobby since 2016.” 
Why did you want to work at Paulding Putnam?
“My husband found the job opening on Facebook and encouraged me to apply. I wanted to learn new skills, grow in my career, and work in my own office environment. Everyone here is friendly, kind, and helps each other as a team. I enjoy having fun and working together with others.”
Tell us about your previous work experience. 
“I worked as a housekeeping aide at The Gardens of Paulding for three years. After that, I worked at Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill for almost two years, where I cleaned the front of the house and washed dishes.”
What will you be doing here at Paulding Putnam?
“My responsibilities include cleaning and helping keep the building clean and healthy. I follow a task schedule, work hard, and want to continue learning new skills. I like things neat and organized, and I enjoy asking questions so I can do my job well.”
What are you looking forward to? 
“I’m looking forward to working here long-term and growing in my role. Outside of work, my husband and I hope to take a cruise next year since we haven’t traveled in a while. We’re also saving for a possible Italy trip in 2027 and planning family photos in 2026.”
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
“I love crafting and have been working on improving my skills since 2016. I’ve made many different items, especially harvest and Christmas crafts. I also hope to start a small craft business from home one day.”
A fun fact about you? 
“I love road trips, spending time with friends, and Christmas shopping—it’s my favorite!”
A favorite quote or verse that inspires you?
“Galatians 5:22: ‘But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.’ I try to stay positive and live by God’s word.”
Anything else you’d like to share?
“I would love to teach sign language; learning is fun! Anytime you want to learn a word, just ask me. I’m always happy to help and share!”