James "Dan" Daniel Thornbrugh

Dan was born in St. Louis, Missouri, to the late Max and Mary Thornbrugh. He often reminisced fondly about his childhood days in The Hill neighborhood of St. Louis, a place that remained close to his heart throughout his life.

In 1958, Dan proudly enlisted in the United States Army, serving with the 82nd Airborne Division. A few years later, he met the love of his life, Barbara Ann Barker, and the two were married in 1964. They began their life together in St. Louis before settling in Tampa, where Dan built a successful career as a liquor wholesale salesman. He received many accolades including awards, trips, and recognition due to his savvy sales throughout his years at National.

Dan and Barbara raised two daughters, Rochelle and Krissi, and together they created countless family memories—snow skiing, traveling through Europe, visiting the Bahamas and Jamaica, and exploring the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina. They were avid boaters and enjoyed many adventures traveling in their RV. Summers in Anna Maria Island were some of his favorite family vacations.

After retiring, Dan earned his real estate license and enjoyed helping others find their homes in the Tampa Bay area. He received awards and recognition for top and unique sales in the housing industry. He and Barbara were longtime members of Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church and cherished their Friday movie outings and attending their grandchildren’s activities. His grandchildren were truly the light of his life, and he devoted himself wholeheartedly to them. Dan also treasured his close circle of friends, including his lunch group that met faithfully every Wednesday—especially his dear buddies Tommy and Hoyt.

Dan was preceded in death by his parents and his stepmother, Bernice Thornbrugh. He is survived by his beloved wife of 61 years, Barbara Ann (Barker) Thornbrugh of Tampa; daughters Rochelle (Kevin) Grooms of Lakeland and Krissi (Kyle) Murray of Pinellas Park; and grandchildren Wilson and Anna Grooms and Khloe Murray. He will be deeply missed by his family and many friends who loved him dearly.

A Funeral Service will be held on Tuesday, November 25th at 2:00 p.m. at Palma Ceia Presbyterian Church in Tampa.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, an organization dear to Dan’s heart.