Ida J. Thurbon

On Sunday, May 3, 2026, Ida J. Thurbon (nee Lilly) passed away. She was the beloved wife of 67 years to George H. Thurbon, Sr.; devoted mother of Teresa A. Hookey and her husband Stephen, George H. Thurbon, Jr. and his wife Charlene, and Theodore Thurbon; cherished grandmother of Lauren Goldberg (Kevin), Shannon Hookey, Melissa Hookey, and Lauren Wiatrowski (Brad); great grandmother of Jonathan Schroeder, Everly Goldberg and Asher Goldberg; dear sister of Nancy Johnson, Lois Guendel (Herbert), Elijah O. Lilly, Jr., James Lilly, Thomas Lilly; pre-deceased by her brother Daniel Lilly and her parents Elijah and Mattie Lilly.

Ida was a woman of remarkable intelligence and quiet determination, someone who seemed to know a little about everything and approached life with curiosity and care. A dedicated and hardworking individual, she pursued her education one class at a time, steadily earning her bachelor’s degree and fulfilling her goal of becoming an accountant. She had a natural love for numbers, often enjoying math, Sudoku puzzles, and crosswords in her spare time. In her younger years, she developed a true skill for sewing. While designing and crafting dresses, including intricate wedding gowns, she took great pride in the detail, structure, and beauty of her work, a reflection of both her patience and her creative talent.

Her professional life was a testament to her perseverance and strength. With unwavering focus, she balanced the demands of work, education, and family, determined to build a career as an accountant. She approached her work with diligence, precision, and a deep sense of responsibility, earning the respect of those around her through her reliability and strong work ethic. Ida worked hard in all aspects of her life, never shying away from a challenge and always seeing things through to completion. As a mother, she was steadfast and supportive, always present for her three children, guiding them with strength and care. That love came full circle in her later years, when her children lovingly cared for her with the same devotion they had shown their father, surrounding her with comfort and support until the very end.

She found joy in traveling during her younger years, especially trips to Hawaii, California, and cruises she shared with her husband George, Sr., when he was still able and willing. In her later years, she and George, Sr. shared a cherished tradition of visiting Pappas every Wednesday, where they were greeted by name, and were able to enjoy some crab soup and crab cakes together, a simple routine that became a meaningful part of their life. Ida also found her greatest happiness in time spent with her grandchildren, whom she loved deeply. She became their trusted and loving babysitter, creating lasting memories especially their special outings to Friendly’s for ice cream, moments that will forever be treasured. Her life was one of resilience, care, and quiet accomplishment, and she will be remembered for the cherished memories and unwavering love she gave to those around her.

Relatives and friends are invited to gather at the Lemmon Funeral Home of Dulaney Valley, Inc., 10 W Padonia Road, Timonium, Maryland 21093 on Saturday, May 9, 2026, from 11AM to 12PM, at which time a Celebration of Ida’s Life will begin.

Interment to follow at Dulaney Valley Memorial Gardens, 200 E. Padonia Road, Timonium, Maryland 21093.