SAM O. THURMOND

Hernando - SAM O. THURMOND, 69, died at home on December 10, 2011, after battling the effects of a brain tumor for one year. He arrived in Athens, Georgia, on January 17, 1942, the oldest child of Sam Thurmond, Sr. and Carole Cooper Thurmond.After graduating from Athens High and attending University of Georgia, he enlisted in the Navy. He served in San Diego, Millington, TN and Pensacola in avionics. Upon completing his enlistment, he began working for the Federal Aviation Administration in Panama City, FL where he completed his business degree at NW Florida. With the FAA, he had assignments in Panama Canal Zone, Gulfport, MS, and Chattanooga; he retired in Memphis with over 42 years of civil service. He was active in each location in the Methodist Church, Scouts, and youth and church league ball. He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Glenda Meyer Thurmond, three children Lisa Pettis (Ernie) of Ocean Springs, MS, Greg of Memphis, and Laurie of Norcross, GA; grandchildren, Ethan and Rosalie Pettis; two sisters of Roswell, GA, Linda Cooper (Nelson), Cathy, and one brother, Randall of Athens; two nephews, Adam and Zack Cooper of Roswell; and a large number of loving relatives, friends and in-laws. Memorial services will be held at Hernando United Methodist Church Thursday, December 15 at 11 a.m. with family receiving friends at 10 a.m. in the sanctuary. Another memorial service will be held in Winterville, GA at a later date. The family gratefully appreciates the care given by the nurses and aides of Sta-Home Healthcare and North MS Hospice. Family requests in lieu of flowers that contributions be made to Hernando UMC, 1890 Mt. Pleasant Rd., Hernando, MS 38632 or charity of your choice. Hernando Funeral Home (662)429-5260 brentwoodfuneralservices.com