Deanna Joyce Thurman

With heavy hearts, the family of Deanna Joyce Jackson-Thurman, a devoted wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, share that she suddenly passed away on March 8, 2026. She was born on June 22, 1972, to Sandra (Johnson) Jackson and Dean Jackson, who survive her.

Deanna’s greatest pride and joy in life was her family. She was the loving mother of Merissa Cruye, Benton Cruye, and Russell Mapa. Being a mom was one of the roles she cherished most, and she poured her heart into caring for and supporting her children every day. She carried that same love into her role as a grandmother. Deanna was blessed with twelve grandchildren who brought immense happiness to her life. She was incredibly proud of each of them and loved them deeply.

Despite her illness, Deanna continued to show up for all her grandchildren in every way she could. She traveled often to the Umonhon Nation Reservation in Nebraska to spend time with her daughter and three grandchildren and support them in their many activities. Whether it was attending powwows, sporting events, school events, and color guard presentations. She was always there cheering them on. She quickly became an enthusiastic Cornhusker sports fan in the making and enjoyed watching games and celebrating with her family.

Deanna showed her love through caring for all her family. Her home was a place where family gathered for holidays and birthdays and where no one left hungry. She found joy in cooking meals and making sure her children, grandchildren, and family were always taken care of. Having all her family together under one roof was one of the things that made her happiest.

She also had a deep love for music and enjoyed listening to all kinds of genres. Music, sports, and family gatherings were some of the many things that filled her life with joy.

Deanna is survived by her husband, Robert Thurman; her parents, Sandra (Johnson) Jackson and Dean Jackson; her children, Merissa Cruye, Benton Cruye, and Russell Mapa; her twelve cherished grandchildren; her siblings, Andrea Jackson and Albert Jackson; and seven nieces and nephews who will all carry her memory in their hearts.

Deanna will be remembered for her deep love for her family, her generous spirit, and the pride she had in being a mother and grandmother. Her love, support, and presence in the lives of her children and grandchildren will forever be felt. Her legacy lives on through the family she cherished so deeply.