Jimmy Ray Thornburgh

Jimmy Ray Thornburgh, 65, of Canton, Texas, passed peacefully on Oct. 20, 2026, in Tyler, Texas. He was born Nov. 25, 1960 in Tyler, Texas, the son of James Andrew and Gatha Belle Thornburgh. He grew up in the small community of Myrtle Springs, Texas, where he learned the value of hard work and a love for farming.

His family truck farmed in the summers, and ran an auto and tractor business all year. At 18 Jimmy began an almost 20 year career as a Plant Operator at the Amoco Production facility near Edgewood, Texas. But he never lost his love or talent for working on equipment. He graduated from Lincoln Technical Institute for Diesel Technology in 2000, returning to his roots as a mechanic.

In 1979 Jimmy married his one true love and best girl, Marcia Stevenson, beginning a partnership that has lasted over 47 yrs. He loved to fish, keep a garden, spend time with friends and putter around the place. Usually followed by his little shadow Bella, who is following him still.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his brother, Ronny Thornburgh; an older brother, Mark who died in infancy; and his beloved nephew, Duane Haley.

Jimmy is survived by his wife, Marcia; his sister and brother-in-law, Tammy and Jeff Haley; his niece, Jennifer Haley; several grandnieces; and many friends.

A visitation to celebrate his life will be held a Eubank Funeral Home, Canton, Texas on Friday, October 30, 2026 from 6:00 to 8:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to the American Cancer Society or St. Jude's Cancer Research.