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Michael Thurmond Obituary
Passed away unexpectedly in Chino Valley, Arizona.
Michael was born in 1949 in Los Angeles, CA. He served in the Navy during the Vietnam War.
He was a weight loss expert who transformed the bodies of thousands of clients, including numerous celebrities, over the last 30 years through his own customized "blueprinting" technique.
In the early 1980's, Michael started "6 Week Body Makeover" in San Francisco and it became an immediate success. He later moved to Los Angeles and became part of the "expert" team of the hit ABC reality series, "Extreme Makeover," where he helped participants attain their ideal weight. In 2000, Michael and Provida Life Sciences developed "Michael Thurmond's 6 Week Body Makeover" infomercial and product. It became one of the highest performing infomercials since its inception. With regular appearances on Home Shopping Network, Michael heard from people all over the country who told him "I did the program and it really works! I now have the body I always dreamed of."
Michael's company was honored with a Congressional medal for his "Mind, Body, Action" program, which aimed to help battle childhood obesity by motivating kids to exercise regularly and to develop healthy eating habits.
Michael will be remembered for his generosity, compassion and gentle spirit. He will be missed by all those whose lives he touched.
Michael is survived by his parents, Connie and James Thurmond; his son, Dustin Thurmond; his long-time partner, Benita J. Heet; his brother James (Joanne); and, his two sisters Susan Thurmond Ellsworth (Dennis) and Christina Thurmond; his first wife Susan Kelley and her daughter Christina Avilar; his second wife Jill Thurmond, and countless nephews and nieces.
A celebration of Michael's life will be held in the West Los Angeles area in September.
In lieu of flowers, donations in Michael's memory may be sent to Garchen Buddhist Institute, P.O. Box 4318,Chino Valley, AZ 86323 or www.garchen.net.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Thurmond
Sally A Owens
April 8, 2025
Michael program still works and rings true to this day. I am still referring people to buy it if they can find it. It was so sad to hear of this passing back in 2013. You will live on forever in our hearts!
Diane
September 14, 2024
Michael saved my life with this diet. I was 365 when I saw the ad on TV. In 3 months lost 90 pounds. A month more, total of 140. Its been years since I did that. Now I need to go back to the diet. Since I stopped eating the right amount of food. Eating 2 meals a day and not the right combinations. That weight will come back. I think of him as A) the smartest man I have even known B) He was my Angel. I was in my 50's when I did the diet. Now over 60. I will do it again. RIP Michael Thank you for being so great! And (((Hugs)) to the family.
Bev Kenny
July 12, 2024
For several years I had know that Micheal has passed away. When I first read it I was really shocked as there wasn't much info on his life or I could not find an obituary. So I figured that privacy was the choice of the remaining family members. I utilized the program over 25 years ago and it worked wonderfully. It is now time to get out the program and begin again. So tonight I thought, I'll google Michael's name and was thrilled to see that, in fact, that there was a lengthy obit and so many condolences from friends and strangers alike. It made me feel so good that he got the attention from folks who truly loved him. Even though these many years have passed, the memory of his presentation on TV is remembered by all who saw him. I needed inspiration to take care of myself again and I'm glad that Michael's legacy of help is still very real. Even though it has been many years since his passing, for those who will read this, know that prayers and loving thoughts are for all of you who knew him personally. Sincerely, Bev K
Dorie
March 18, 2024
Back around 2001 I purchased Michael's program and was very happy that this it allowed so much healthy food and I actually lost the weight (60+ lb. !!). Of course now I'm older, my metabolism is slower and I've been struggling to keep my weight down. I need to get rid of at least 10-15 lbs and am going to give his program a whirl once again. I will always be thankful for his videos and great advice. It changed my life for the better! RIP dear Michael.
Lori
March 7, 2024
Michael helped me lose and maintain my weight and health. Just a fantastic program. I was so sad to
hear of his passing in 2013. I just got his books out again because I need a time up. Continue to RIP Michael and thank you!
Dorothy Kaufmann
February 17, 2024
I just picked up Michael's "6 day BODY MAKEOVER" book again ( that I've had for so long and was successful with) but am now needing to restart the program. Looked online to see if he had anything new and found this information - dated 2013. Yowza. A great man will be sadly missed.
Theresa
June 27, 2023
My condolences to the family. So sorry to find this out today. His 6-week body makeover always comes to mind whenever I want to lose weight or eat better. Years ago I purchased the plan and lost 30-40 lbs. I have kept most of the weight off but trying to speed up my metabolism and remembered his plan. I'm sure he is missed by all who knew him. Sending thoughts and prayers to his family and friends.
Stephanie
September 13, 2022
Although I never had the privilege of meeting him in person, I have gotten to speak to him a few times. After the unexpected loss of my fiancé I had issues with weight , amid the heart break .
Michael was a Genuinely caring individual with an open heart , who seemed to be more than ready to help those in need.
I will always remember his kindness snd our conversations .
I followed Michael´s program and had great results but what impressed me the most about the man was his genuine caring spirit. We were supposed to keep in touch , but unfortunately that´s not what happened. However the things that I learned from him have stuck with me and I´m sure countless others.
The biggest thing I could say I remember about him was that he had a way of making you feel like you were so important to him.
At that time in my life that meant so much and still does . May you ne enjoying God´s blessings in great peace .
My sincere condolences to the family. May your memories ease your loss .
Richard Marinaro
August 26, 2022
I remember years ago wondering what happened to Michael and his great concept on weight lose. I was saddened to see he had passed away. I met Michael during the filming of one of the infomercials I was in. 90 lbs. in 6 months for me thanks to Michael. It has been 20 years and I have been able to keep most of the weight off. I don't need to read the material any more. I know what I need to do thanks to Michael. A tremendous loss too early RIP.
Mariann Baratta
September 16, 2021
Few people have had such an impact on my life as Michael. I bought his 6-week body makeover program almost 20 years ago. I learned the right way to eat to keep my blood sugar low and be healthy. I am 66 and have slowly put on weight over the years with too many carbs and too much fat. I started roughly following the diet a month ago and my body seemed to know what to do. My blood tests are already improved and I can already feel a big difference. I'm looking forward to staying on the plan to get down to a healthier weight. This diet has extended my life! Thank you, Michael. God bless you!
Cynthia Morris
August 17, 2021
I still think of Michael...in fact as recently as just a week ago. Gentle giants are hard to come by these days. I met him in person here in L.A. through his 6-Week Body Makeover in the mid-90's, and though our meeting was brief, I was touched by his grace and his truly caring manner. He was a beautiful soul and will always be missed in this world. Love and peace to his surviving family and friends~
Denice Rivera
March 9, 2021
This is so incredibly sad! I can't believe I'm just finding out about his transition. Like many of you, I used his program with great success and was recently wondering what he was currently doing, since I hadn't heard anything about him in a while. I respected him very much as a professional and soul who spoke truth in order to help others. RIP Michael, you have helped transform so many lives...my deepest gratitude for all your work.
Pixi
February 25, 2021
I did not know him but I purchased his 6 Week Body Makeover twice. I lost the first one in a move and repurchased because it works. I am only just now hearing of his passing. I am shocked and very saddened by this news.
Clark Jones
November 11, 2020
Like many of you, I KNOW that Michael's theory on the body, metabolism and weight loss works! I purchased his program in 2007 and was very successful. Over the years, I fell into old habits which was not eating enough and my metabolism died; but I always picked up my back book and got back on course. Last year, I was looking online to see what, if any, new suggestions/programs Michael had and I was shocked to find out about his passing. I never met him but felt like he was a true friend JUST by watching the videos and reading the little black book. It was as if he was speaking directly to me. Michael, you are truly missed. Rest well my friend.
Brenda
October 14, 2020
The world lost a beautiful person. Like so many others, I pulled out my little black book of the 6 Week Body Makeover and wanted to know what Michael was doing at this time, . . . I admired your sincerity in what you preached so much, because it works. Thank you. To the Thurmond family and friends, Michael was loved and respected for his passion and honesty and we will always say his name.
Angelina Fuller
August 20, 2020
Michael has been very influential in motivating women to care about their health and overall appearance. He made self conscious women live again. He gave you that boost of confidence with his 6 week Body Makeover Plan. It really dies works. I just found out that he had passed. I wanted to repurchase the plan since I lost my blueprint book. Mr. Thurmond will truly be missed. Prayers to the family. R.I.P.
Valerie Taylor
August 11, 2020
I just found out about your passing...RIP Michael and thank you for all you have done to help others to lose weight. Your program absolutely works and I'm a witness to it. You are missed! All blessings to family members!
Pierina Rhodes
July 1, 2020
Totally beside myself to learn of the lost of Michael. I was at a lost when it came to loosing weight in 2005 and when I saw his program on TV I said I need this. I ordered everthing I needed and got started right away. It was just for me. I was completely satisfied. I have slip back a bit but I am going at it again because I know his program works. My condolences extends to each of his Family members and truely sorry for the lose of Michael who touched so many lives.
Thanking all his Family members for allowing his Makeover program to remain online for all.
Sending Love to each of you.
Mrs. Rhodes
Sara S
November 5, 2018
He helped me so much in losing weight, twice. I am so sad to hear he passed. I really admired and respected him. A great loss.
Kathy H
June 7, 2018
OMG...I cannot believe this and that it was almost 5 years ago. We are so shocked and sad by this news. Michael's program helped me loose weight and get healthy. He was a wonderful coach for me. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family and loved ones.
Geraldine Davis
April 27, 2018
I loved watching him teach the right way to do exercises.
Hope Billings
April 3, 2018
I just rid Michael Thurmond Ob. I am Turly sorry for the families loss. God Bless.
Jane Hicks
February 14, 2018
I just found out that Michael Thurmond died. I am so sorry to hear this. I have gone on his program twice and each time it was a success. I wanted to start back on it and I checked to see if he had any more programs or had added on to his 6 week makeover program and that's when I saw that he had died. He truly was an inspiration and I know he will be missed. Prayers to his loved ones.
Elaine McLaughlin
November 6, 2017
May The Almighty God Jehovah resurrect You back to Us at His Appointed Time. Missing You Much. Elaine ( a former customer of your Weight-Loss program).
Andy
August 2, 2017
Thanks Michael Thurmond all my life I been overweight at 368 lbs I was at 30 yrs old ,I saw your program and joined and I went from 368 to 230 in a year.thanks Michael thurmond.you gave me hope.
Barb M.
September 21, 2013
Dear Thurmond family: I just took out my body makeover again, and was looking up more info on Michael, when I saw his obituary. I'm very sorry for your loss. He helped so many people feel good about themselves again. Remember that death leaves a void no one can fill, but love leaves memories no one can steal. May all of your wonderful memories keep him alive in your hearts.
Josephine Provenzano
September 16, 2013
My deepest condolences to the Thurmond family! Just heard this very sad news. He will be sadly missed!
Anna Chanvechsat
September 3, 2013
Dear Aunt Connie and Uncle Jimmy,
One of my fondest memories of Micheal was when I was little, 4 or 5 yrs old. At Grampa's house in Reseda, all the older cousins and Micheal were hanging out in one room, away from the younger ones. He invited Rosie and me into the room where all the "Big Kids" were. While he was talking and laughing with my older cousins he was combing my hair. He then complemented me on my hair and said that it was beautiful and soft. It made me feel special at that age, especially because I hated having short hair all the time! (I have never forgotten that)
Aunt Connie and Uncle Jimmy, I have included a picture that my mom had saved. I will send the original to you. Love, your niece Anna Chanvechsat
Tom and Anavee send their regards.
Dasha Zeleny
September 3, 2013
Just last week I took out the box with my Six Weeks Body Makeover Program to re-create the success I had 10 years ago. Michael Thurmond's suggested eating and exercise made me feel so good then and I never forgot it.
I just wanted to check on the internet for any news on him and was so terribly shocked to read about his unexpected passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you, he was a very special person.
Michael Thurmond at Robert Hill Lane Elementary School Undated Photo
Robert Marlar
August 30, 2013
August 30, 2013
Dear Mr. & Mrs. Thurmond:
During the mid 1950's, while attending Robert Hill Lane School, Michael and I were the best of friends. I spent many a happy and interesting afternoon at your home; playing in the back yard with the tortise, and advancing various projects Michael and I had planned. Occasionally, we'd explore the vacant fields which were north of First Street, collecting interesting rocks, trapping frogs or insects and seizing cool items which had been discarded there.
My name is Robert Marlar, and our family lived only blocks away on Gladmar Street. I have fond memories of the times I spent in your home, and I am grateful to you both for treating me kindly during my many visits. Thank you. I also remember Michale's little brother Jimmy, but additional memories have faded with the years.
The last time I remember speaking with my old friend was when he told me that the family would be moving up to Bishop Ca. I never saw him again...not in person at least.
Recently though, I saw a Michael Thurmond on a television program called Extreme Makeover. I didn't know it was him. My brother told me that this was THE Michael Thurmond...my old friend!
I was proud of him for his achievements. And happy for what he had accomplished.
I was tempted to reach out to him in a letter, to see if he remembered me and the fun we had when we were little kids. But, in the back of my mind, it thought it best to leave it alone, lest he think I was some demented fan or some such thing. And just maybe he wouldn't even have remembered anything of that time frame, or of me. It was such a long time ago.
So, I extend my deepest sympathy to you and to all others in your family. This is certainly a shock to all who knew him, and knew of him. His passing has saddened me very much even though we have been seperated by well over fifty years. I am sending this little picture of Michael, which I took at school one day. I am so sorry.
Sincerely,
Robert Marlar
Michael Thurmond, student at Robert Hill Lane Elemenary School, Los Angeles Ca. Undated Photo.
Robert Marlar
August 30, 2013
August 29, 2013
Rest in Peace.
August 26, 2013
This message is for Mrs. Connie Thurmond. Please accept our condolences for Michael. It is very sad to lose a son, but remember in death he will be entering the gate of heaven.
May the love of family and friends comfort and strengthen you in the days ahead. Our prayers and thoughts are with you and the family, With much love, Ed and (Lupe Villanueva Vasquez) ps. Lupe was daughter of Rafael and Maria Villanueva, related to the Avila's from Rosecommon St, Los Angeles and twins Marina & Connie. Please get in touch with me
Grady Means
August 26, 2013
Michael was a very good man to know and work with. He helped millions of people lose weight, and improve their health and self-image. We are saddened by his untimely passing and have him and his family in our thoughts and prayers.
Cynthia Morris
August 25, 2013
The world lost a beautiful soul when it lost Michael Thurmond. I and a friend had talked about him only yesterday, before I read his obituary in today's Los Angeles Times. I met him in the late 1990's when I joined his 6-Week Body Makeover. The cynic in me had been expecting to meet a slick, superficial salesman-type - but I had been referred to him by a friend whom I trusted. I will always remember - and have often spoken about - the good vibe I felt from him, his sincerity, how he looked me in the eyes as we talked, his true caring, interested and compassionate nature. I will never forget him. Your loss must be immeasurable. As I am in West L.A., I would like to attend the coming celebration of his precious life. Please advise of details. Thank you~
Laura Hansbury
August 23, 2013
Though I have never met you, you were my inspirational mentor from a distance for so many years. When I would watch you on TV, my eyes would light up. And in times when I would feel sad, remembering that there were still some caring people in the world like you would always cheer me up. I now send those same caring and gentle wishes to all of your friends and family. Though you will be missed by so many people, you will be in their hearts and your wonderful memory will live on forever-in their lives and in mine. You have touched a stranger's heart and impacted her life. Without knowing you, I miss you and will always remember you.
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