Paul Eugene Thurston

He was born on July 22, 1947 in Decatur, IL to Norval and Arlene (Hornbuckle) Thurston. He later married Dorothy Thurston on May 14, 1983 in Decatur, IL, they were together for over 43 years.

He was in the United States Army for just over 30 years and retired in 2007 from the military side and from the civilian side (AMSA 48). He served in Vietnam in 1965-1966 in the 84TH ENG and Desert Storm 1990-1991 in the 416TH ENCOM. Throughout the second part of his career he was a part of several army reserve units.

Paul was a life member of VFW Post 2602 in Peoria Heights. He was a charter member of the American Legion Post 1111. He was a past member of the East Peoria VFW Post 2078 and Decatur Post 99. He was also a past member of the Navy Marine Club in Peoria Heights.

Paul loved singing karaoke and loved music. He and his wife loved going out to dance. He watched history documentaries with his family. He was very dedicated to his family and felt very lucky to have everyone. Even during his final days, he reminded his family that life is short and encouraged them to take care of one another. He reminded his children to "take care of Mama."

Paul is survived by his wife, Dorothy; his children, Wesley (Sherry), Tina (Tim), Nancy (Mark), Tim, Sheila, Scott, Michelle (Richie), Steve, William, and Dawn; 32 grandchildren, 26 great grandchildren, and 2 great great grandchildren; and many extended family members.

He is preceded by his parents, his second mother, Emma, and 2 grandchildren.

A very special thank you from the family to everyone who cared for Paul in his final days: everyone with Carle Hospice, Steven, Dawn, Michelle, Samantha, and Cindy. Thank you to all the friends and family who came to visit, and thank you to Operation Last Watch who came to the home to perform the Stand Down Ceremony.

A Funeral Service in honor of Paul will be held on Sunday, June 21, 2026 at 1:00 pm at Davison-Fulton-Woolsey-Wilton Funeral Home with a Visitation one hour prior. Committal will be held directly after at Parkview Cemetery. A Reception to follow from 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm at the VFW Post 2602 located at 1505 E Lake Ave, Peoria, IL 61616.

Memorial Contributions can be made to Veterans Helping Veterans or VFW Post 2602.

Memories and condolences can be shared on Woolsey-Wilton.com.