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William Thurston Obituary

William N. Thurston

William N. Thurston, age 84, passed away on Sunday, August 16, 2015 while traveling in Birmingham, Alabama. He was born in New London, New Hampshire to Percy Messer Thurston and Ruth Isabel French on May 15, 1931. After graduating from Bates College and serving many years in the U.S. Coast Guard, he returned to complete his doctorate in history at Florida State University. He later became a historian for the State of Florida and settled permanently in Tallahassee. He was a railroad buff all his life, as well as an avid student of politics and international affairs. In retirement he did extensive volunteer work with veterans groups.

William was preceded in death by his parents. He is survived by Georgia, his wife of 48 years; one son, Scott (Karen) Thurston of Peachtree City, GA; two grandchildren, Stephen and Kevin Thurston; and one sister, Connie Reece of New London, NH.

Visitation will be at 10:00 am on Friday, August 21, 2015 at Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home at 1737 Riggins Road, with the funeral service beginning at 11:00 am. Interment will follow at MeadowWood Memorial Park. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Florida Sheriff's Youth Ranches, Inc., Office of the President, P.O. Box 2000, Boys Ranch, Fl., 32064.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Tallahassee Democrat on Aug. 20, 2015.

Memories and Condolences
for William Thurston

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Scott's last photo of his Dad, so typical of his look.

Sally Muri

August 25, 2015

Sally Muri

August 25, 2015

Uncle Bill was truly a scholar and a gentleman. I will miss his hugs, smiles and erudite explanations of all things historical. So many great memories of this man we all loved. Sally

Vivian Young

August 25, 2015

I was so sorry to learn about Bill's passing. Have very fond memories of working with him at the Bureau of Historic Preservation many years ago. Condolences to Georgia and the rest of his family.

Michael Zimny

August 21, 2015

Bill was my first supervisor at the Division of Historic Resources. He was a good man and will be missed.

August 20, 2015

My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family Georgia!

ann ferm

August 20, 2015

In loving memory ...

John Soufleris

August 18, 2015

I remember seeing Aunt Georgia and Uncle Bill, year after year in Manchester, NH, usually during the holidays at Yia Yia's house. I remember his love for trains, and his talent for telling a good story with that light floridian southern drawl. I also remember his wit and fortitude in debating a point he felt passionate about. He was a life student of local history and politics. Uncle Bill we wish you well and the most sincerest of condolences for those you have left behind... Love Debra, John, Kayla and Kenzy Soufleris

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To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Culley's MeadowWood Funeral Home & Memorial Park - Tallahassee

700 Timberlane Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312

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