Donna Thurman

Donna Dorene Thurman, age 91 of Beardstown, died Sunday, November 22, 2020 at Heritage Health in Beardstown.

She was born September 23, 1929 in Browning, the daughter of Glen and Elva Newell Belville She married John A. “Jack” Thurman on October 15, 1994 at First Southern Baptist Church in Beardstown and he preceded her in death on August 12, 2015.

She is survived by two sons Larry (wife Susan) Simpson of Chapin and Randall Simpson of Beardstown; 10 grandchildren; and numerous great grandchildren and great great grandchildren; one sister Betty Briney of Bluff City; one brother George Belville of Beardstown; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents, her husband, two sons Robert and Ronald Simpson, a daughter-in-law Susan Simpson, three sisters Edith Dowler, Bonnie Hill, and Iola Stoneking, and four brothers Robert, Roy, Jerry, and Raymond Belville.

Donna attended Browning High School. She worked as a cook in Beardstown for over 50 years. The Arrow Restaurant, Beardstown Hospital, and Elmwood Manor were all lucky to have her in the kitchen. Donna was a member of First Southern Baptist Church in Beardstown. She had a passion for collecting ducks and Indians. Donna enjoyed fishing, Bingo, Crocheting and singing gospel music. Her memory will be carried on with all those she leaves behind.

Private family services will be held with burial in the Beardstown City Cemetery. An informal visitation will be held from 9-11 AM Saturday at Colwell Memorial Home in Beardstown.

Due to the current health situation, face masks will be required and to comply with social distancing guidelines, a limited number of people will be allowed in the memorial home at one time.

Memorials have been suggested to American Diabetes Association or National Kidney Foundation. Condolences may be left online at www.colwellmemorialhome.com or on Facebook at Colwell Memorial Home.