Howard Junior Thurston

Howard was born in Goochland, Virginia on February 13, 1940, to Hanard and Pearl Thurston, as one of their eight children. From the modest beginnings, Howard learned to cherish family, appreciate nature, and embrace the world around him. He acquired a robust work ethic early helping on his family’s small farm and sawmill which contributed to a life predicated by hard work and the desire to provide for his family.

In 1960 he was blessed to meet the love of his life, Thelma. They were married on June 14, 1963, and shared 61 happy years together. Howard and Thelma had two children, Laura Thurston Matheny and Scott Thurston. They also helped raise his beloved niece, Janet Holland Rice, who is a cherished member of their family.

While a young adult, Howard learned about the plumbing and heating trades and applied this knowledge and his entrepreneurial aptitude when he and Thema launched their own business a few years later. They operated this successful business for decades working alongside their late son and late son-in-law. Over the years, this HVAC business expanded into excavation, residential design and construction, including building homes where his family has many cherished memories.

He is preceded in death by his parents, siblings, beloved wife Thelma and dear son, Scott. Family members who continue to cherish fond memories of him include: his daughter Laura Matheny and her life parter, Troy Kurtz; Janet Rice and her husband, Charlie; three beloved granddaughters, Alexandra Matheny, Lauren Thurston and Olivia Thurston; and one great granddaughter, Emersyn Mae Barlow.

Over their long and happy life together, Howard and Thelma experienced much joy being surrounded by their children and granddaughters. Their home was the place for family and friends to “just come in and stay a while”, where spontaneous visits were welcomed, and many planned festive family events occurred. The grandchildren loved the sleepovers, being spoiled rotten and making lifelong memories at Mimi and “Poppy’s” house.

Howard was a man of few words who expressed his love through acts of service and caring for his family. When he wasn’t working, he enjoyed tinkering on projects around his house, in the workshop, and yard. He spent countless hours making his yard and gardens beautiful, which brought him peace and joy.

Howard and Thelma embraced adventures with their family, going camping and beach trips, taking cruises, and traveling to many destinations. They were blessed to be able to share cherished vacation experiences with their children and grandchildren.

His family would like to thank the exceptional staff of Brookdale Senior Living, in Staunton, Va, where he resided the last two years near his daughter, Laura. The kind and skilled staff members welcomed him and provided a genuinely caring and nurturing assisted living experience.

A memorial service will be held at Teague Funeral Service on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. immediately followed by a reception for coffee and desserts where family and friend may gather.