Sergeant First Class (Retired) David B. Thurman transitioned home peacefully Tuesday at his residence. He was 88 years of age. The beloved son of Mr. Tom D. Thurman and Mrs. Annie Thurman Blakemore, SFC Thurman was born in Shelbyville, TN, and was a U. S. Army Veteran of the Korean and Vietnam Conflicts. He retired following 23 years of dedicated service. Upon his retirement, SFC Thurman owned and operated Thurman's Plaza and Terry's Package Store. He was a devout member of St. John AME Church where he served as a Trustee, with the Culinary Ministry and the Sons of Allen. He was also a member of the Moderns Club.
Surviving his departure with cherished memories, include: his wife, Mrs. Idella Sims Thurman; a daughter, Debroah Thurman Hicks (Artis); two grandchildren, Terrance Hicks (Amy) and Jamesia Hicks; a great granddaughter, Olivia Hicks; a host of other relatives and dear friends.
The Homegoing Celebration for SFC Thurman will be Tuesday, June 4, 2019 at 12 noon at St. John AME Church with interment at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Pastor Richard Washington will officiate.
Visitation is Monday beginning at 2:00 with a Family Hour from 5 til 6:00 p.m. at the funeral home.
The Staff of Progressive Funeral Home is honored to support the family with End of Life Services.
So sorry for your loss, Draw close to God and he will draw close to you during this time of sorrow. James 4:8
To live a fulfilled life is a blessing. To receive the ultimate reward of eternal life with Christ is a blessing. To have had David Thurman as my first cousin is another blessing. David was a bright light in my life. Every conversation ended with, "I love you, Cousin." --Brenda Cannon
This is so sad when you truly believe someone will be here forever. He was a pillar in our church, St John AME, Columbus. He was a leader, our chef (he loved feeding people), a strong voice for what is right, our listening ear, but most of all, he was our friend. The church will not be the same without his smile and hugs. Mr. Thurman you will never be forgotten and your spirit will be with us for always at St John. Rest well dear friend!
To the Family. Sorry for your loss. May you find some comfort in knowing that Mr. Thurman is safe in the memory of God, who will remember every detail about him and bring him back to life again. John 5:28