Paul William Thurston

Paul William Thurston, cherished husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, passed away peacefully on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at the age of 86. He and the love of his life, Maureen, were self-proclaimed snowbirds who enjoyed winters in Nalcrest, Florida, and warmer months at their beautiful home in Plymouth, Massachusetts. He was born on June 19, 1939, in Boston to the late Harold and Anna (Love) Thurston. Paul was known for his warmth and kindness to others, always willing to offer a helping hand. He found joy in puzzles, cards, rooting for the Boston sports teams, and any activity that allowed him to socialize with family and friends. He was a dedicated father to his two sons, taking time to instill in them an appreciation for kindness, hard work, and a love of the outdoors. He served his nation as a cook in the Army Reserve and a radio operator in the United States Air Force, stationed at Fort Drum, New York; Keesler Air Base, Mississippi; Kimpo, Korea; Okinawa, Japan; and Westover Air Base, Massachusetts. He worked as a machinist, Teamsters Local 25 truck driver, and US Postal letter carrier. Paul served as Commander for the Disabled American Veterans, Post 72, and Sergeant at Arms and Color Guard Commander for the John Edward A. Ribeiro American Legion Post 40, in Plymouth, Massachusetts. He was a member of Saint Peter's Catholic Church.

Paul is survived by his sons, Paul William Thurston, Jr. and wife Tracy, Michael Thurston and wife Anne; sister, Ann Novicki, brother William and wife Pat, sister Pat DiMartino and husband James, brother Joseph Thurston and wife Dotti, sister Robin Brunnick; eight grandchildren, Paul III, Andrew, Alex, Sam, Megan, Rebecca, Emma, and Joseph; and one great-grandchild, Fiver.

A celebration of life will be held at the American Legion Post 40, Plymouth, in May. Paul will be interred with his wife, Maureen, at the Massachusetts National Cemetery in Bourne, Massachusetts. Condolences can be sent to the family at www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/bel-air-md.

In place of flowers, donations may be made to the John Edward A. Ribeiro American Legion Post 40, 199 Federal Furnace Road, Plymouth, MA 02360.