Walter Richard Thurston

Richard Thurston was called home by his heavenly father on 1/15/2018. He left peacefully, surrounded by his family. Born on 12/5/1937 in Salisbury MD, he was a lifelong resident. He was predeceased by his parents, Walter Coleman Thurston and Irma Hester Davis Thurston; his grandfather, W.C. Thurston, a poet and writer and grandmother Anna Coleman Thurston and Oscar C. Davis and Emma Jane Carey Davis; and his sister, Nancy Coleman Thurston Elliott.

Richard attended Wicomico High School where he enjoyed being a member of the football team. He delivered 7-Up all over the eastern shore. Sometimes he would get paid with a bushel of steamed crabs. After graduating he attended Goldy Beacom Business School in Wilmington, DE where he received a degree in business. He then went to Marshall College (now University) in Huntington, W. Va. where he received his degree. After college he returned to Salisbury and taught English, History, Current Affairs and Speech and coached JV football and track at Wicomico Senior High School. Eventually he left teaching to work for Dale Carnegie in Allentown, PA. He was a motivational speaker. However he missed the eastern shore so he returned in the 1960's. He then started a long career working for the State of Maryland at the Poplar Hill Pre-Release Correctional Camp. He educated inmates and helped them to obtain a high school diploma and taught them work and life skills which would enable them to re-enter society. He was very proud of his accomplishments with not only helping the inmates but also implementing some new programs. After retiring he taught GED classes in Somerset County.

Richard was very intelligent and possessed a wisdom beyond his years. He was very loving and caring. He loved to have discussions about current affairs regarding Salisbury and world events. He enjoyed reading and especially loved history books. He liked to go on walks and enjoyed the outdoors. Spending time with friends and having fun was one of his favorite things to do. He liked all types of music but especially rock n roll from the 1950's. He had a great sense of humor. He enjoyed going to auctions and especially liked collecting Salisbury memorabilia and any items related to monkeys to add to his collection. He was a huge fan of Maryland college basketball and football and enjoyed watching the games with his good friends, Wayne and Diane Shaff.

He loved his family and stepfamily. He is survived by his best friend and loving wife, Sharon; his cherished daughter, whom he loved so much and was so proud of, Richele Thurston (Rob) and his grandson, Jake Bojarun. He is also survived by his stepchildren Tanya and Kim (Kerry); his step grandchildren Simca (Mike), Seth, Olivia and Naomi; and his step great grandchildren Elliana and Coen. In addition he is survived by his niece, Pam Pickel; great niece, Leslie Thurston Pickel; and cousin Jane Taylor.

Richard loved animals and was very dedicated to supporting animal rights and ending all animal abuse. He supported many local and national charities. He was very supportive of environmental issues. In lieu of flowers please consider a donation in his memory to A Pet for LIfe, mailing address c/o Pat Long, 28215 Log Cabin Rd., Salisbury, MD 21801. They do local pet rescue and locate permanent homes for them.

Richard lived a full and wonderful life, even with some medical limitations. The family would like to express a special thank you to Richard's best friends, Wayne and Diane Shaff, who were always there for every step of his journey. And a special thank you to Coastal Hospice and the wonderful staff at Delmar Manor Assisted Living. Your love and care was very much appreciated.

There will be no funeral per his wishes. A celebration of his life will be held at a later date for family. He will be missed by all who loved him and he will live on in the hearts of those who cherish his memory.