Search by Name

Search by Name

BORN

1930

DIED

2024

FUNERAL HOME

Doris Thurston Obituary

Doris 'Dorie' Thurston, longtime resident of Culpeper, passed away January 17, 2024 at The Culpeper. She was 93 years old and was known for her resilient and loving spirit.

Born Doris Herndon on August 8, 1930 to parents, Claude C. Herndon, Sr. and Ruby Tanner in Brightwood, Madison County, Virginia.

Dorie is predeceased by her husband, David Vernon Thurston, and her siblings, Claude, Jr., Florence, and Elizabeth.

Dorie is survived by her daughter, Lou Ellen Thurston Miller (husband Michael) of Culpeper, and her grandson, Fielding Thurston Miller of Aspen, Colorado.

Also surviving Dorie are close friends, Patsy and Ron Frye, Jan and Wayne Carwile, Clark Taylor, Judy Gore, and Kelli Wharton, as well as nieces and nephews.

She was a longtime member of Culpeper Baptist Church. She taught ballet and tap dance for children, had an obsession with Kleenex tissues, and was a fitness instructor in her daughter's business where she was feared for her brutal core workouts.

Dorie was a dedicated friend and consummate host. She enjoyed many trips, especially to the beach, and spending quality time with her family and friends. In her later years she maintained her relationships, mind, and wit. Of all the many roles she took on, the most cherished was that of grandmother.

Special thanks and gratitude are given to the staff of The Culpeper.

A private interment took place at Fairview Cemetery.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.

An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com.

Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.

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

Published by Madison County Eagle on Jan. 25, 2024.

Memories and Condolences
for Doris Thurston

Sponsored by Found and Sons Funeral Chapels & Cremation Service - Culpeper.

Not sure what to say?





4 Entries

Gloria Hawkins

February 18, 2024

Lou Ellen. So sorry to read of your Mom's passing. You are in my thots and prayers.

Dottie Gilbert Jordan

January 25, 2024

Doris was the "big sister" I never had. I valued her friendship for over 70 years and I will be forever grateful for her influence, advice and presence in my life. She truly helped mold me to be the person I am today. Love you always.

Sara n Prater

January 25, 2024

So sorry about your mom my thoughts are with you
I moved years ago I worked with David at Leggett's but talked to your mom all the time. I use to be a Butler but remarried and moved to Alabama. Just my thoughts with her and she was so sweet. My best you and your family

Best thoughts Sara(Butler) Prater

Margie and Steve Southard

January 23, 2024

Lou Ellen and family,
Sorry to hear about your Mom. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

Showing 1 - 4 of 4 results

Make a Donation
in Doris Thurston's name

Memorial Events
for Doris Thurston

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:

Found and Sons Funeral Chapels & Cremation Service - Culpeper

850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper, VA 22701

How to support Doris's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor Doris Thurston's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more