Michael Jon Thurman, 57, of Abingdon, died unexpectedly Tuesday morning, March 18, 2025, in the emergency room of OSF St. Mary Medical Center.
He was born October 12, 1967, in Galesburg, the son of John R. and Connie E. (McGrew) Thurman.
He is survived by his companion, Mary Brentise of Abingdon; two sisters, Diana Thurman of Galesburg and Suzi Magee of Alexis; a brother, Mike (Georgia) Stubbs of Moline; stepmother, Diane (Mike Jones) Thurman of Hermon; Mary’s daughter, Genie Yelm and her daughters, McKenzie and Charlie of Williamsfield; nieces, Catherine (Dakota) Pullen of Kirkwood, Jennifer (Joshua) Dixon of Galesburg, and Sarah (Colby) Springer of Monmouth; nephew, Ty Stubbs of Bloomington; and two great nieces, one great nephew with another on the way. He was preceded in death by his father, John R. Thurman and his mother, Connie E. Wilson.
Mike was raised and educated in Abingdon, graduating from Abingdon High School in 1985. He was active in sports playing football and baseball. He was also involved with 4-H and FFA. He and his sisters were raised in the Abingdon Christian Church. After high school, Mike served for two years in the United States Army. For the past 22 years, Mike has worked at Westrock in Galesburg.
Mike enjoyed fishing, mushrooming, golfing, and the occasional trip to the casino. Most important to Mike was family. He enjoyed spending time with them visiting and playing cards. Mike will be remembered for his love of animals as well.
Visitation will be 10 a.m. to noon, Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Abingdon Christian Church. Funeral service will follow at noon. Pastor Linda Mowrer will officiate. Burial with military honors will be in Abingdon Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to the Abingdon-Avon High School FFA Program, Abingdon-Avon High School Boys’ Baseball Program, or an animal rescue of the donor’s choice. Hinchliff-Pearson-West Funeral and Cremation Services is honored to serve the family. Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.h-p-w.com.
