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George William Thurman
George William Thurman
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George Thurman Obituary
George was a native of Lindenhurst, New York and graduated from Lindenhurst High School. He served four years in the United States Air Force. After moving to Virginia Beach, he received his bachelor's degree in Education from Virginia Wesleyan College and a master's degree in Fine Arts from Queen's College in Charlotte, North Carolina.
George taught English at Salem High School for fifteen years and at Oscar Smith High School in Chesapeake for the past six years, until he retired in 2020. He was beloved by his students, many saying they never liked English class until they had him as a teacher. His passion was reading and writing poetry and he also wrote a screenplay which was performed Off Broadway. He enjoyed playing and coaching tennis and was a lifelong New York Mets fan.
He is survived by his loving wife of 23 years, Renate; his sisters, Gail, Barbara and Audrey (Mark); nephews Nathan and Austen; niece Sydney; stepchildren Saskia and Michael along with extended relatives and close friends.
George will be greatly missed.
A celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Memorial donations in George's honor may be made to the Virginia Beach SPCA . Condolences may be offered to the family at:
www.hollomon-brown.com
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KW
July 20, 2024
Mr. Thurman was my high school English teacher. He was one of the most kind, caring, and intelligent educators I have ever met. He was always supportive, and knew how to bring out the best in people in a way that was gentle, yet ambitious.
Even though it's been 10 years since then, I still think of the times he nurtured my abilities as a young writer, and how he encouraged me to step into my full potential, and follow my dreams. I'm so glad I got the chance to see one of his performances live while he was still with us.
His passion for English, learning, and analysis is something that will stick with me forever. I send my sincerest condolences and prayers to his family, and everyone who knew him. He will be dearly missed.
Elaine Benwitz
April 5, 2022
My, the year has flown by but regardless how long, George will always be kindly remembered!
Astrid
February 9, 2022
George was my best friend for 20 years. We would place bets during the world cup and write poetry every summer. He taught me more in this time than a lifetime of errors. I will hold on to your poems dearly, my friend. Rest in peace. I hope the afterlife has a cold beers for you. I love you.
Allie Harrell
May 13, 2021
I have so many great memories from Mr. Thurman's class. He was a wonderful teacher and an amazing person in general. Although the class he taught was difficult in nature, especially for those like me who were not the best at English, he found a way to make it enjoyable and memorable. The reading checks we took always ended in laughing conversation as Mr. Thurman decided whether to go "easy" or "hard" on us. He always ended up giving us mercy, which was wonderful. Sometimes, he would tell us stories from when he was younger. I wish I could have heard more of them; he was such an interesting and influential person. Although my heart breaks to know he has passed, I am so lucky to have known him. May God bless you and your family in these difficult times.
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Hope Foss
May 13, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my English teacher freshman year, and a couple of years later his class still left a major impact on me. The way he taught and structured his class was a large part of the reason I'm so interested in an English major for college. He was one of those teachers you could never forget.
Amanda Battle
April 19, 2021
I am so grateful to have gotten to know George over the past few years at Oscar Smith. I was lucky enough to be a part of his professional learning community, and I learned so much from him! He always had a way of looking practically at the world and bringing a dry wit to every situation. I loved hearing his perspective and was in awe of his intellect.
It was obvious that he loved teaching, and I loved teaching his students when they got to senior year because I knew they had strong foundational skills and a passion for English that George had helped them discover and develop.
He was always a strong supporter of our theatre program, making sure to bring his classes to our productions.
George made a positive impact in the lives of so many students and of his coworkers. I am grateful for his influence in my teaching and my life, and I will greatly miss him.
Nancy Bogan
April 12, 2021
George Thurman was not only a knowledgeable and engaging teacher to his students, but he inspired and taught his colleagues as well. He was sharp-witted, talented, observant, and kind. His writing was beautiful, profound, and accessible because he was that way. He will be missed by so many, but his influence will continue through all of us who were fortunate enough to get to know him. Much love and peace to his family and all who mourn for him.
Maggie Connolly
April 12, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my freshman English teacher. He helped me to appreciate literature so much more than he gave himself credit for; I saw him touch the hearts and minds of my classmates everyday. He was witty and passionate, and truly cared about his students, along with the material he taught. His influence will forever be present in my class; the memories I made in his class are the kind that the shape a person permanently, and I will be forever in his debt for that. He will be sincerely missed.
Connie Williams
April 12, 2021
My thoughts and prayers are with George's family at this sad time. It was always a joy to see him at OSHS and an honor to teach in the same department. His graciousness toward all and dedication to teaching were an inspiration to me.
Charles M Ballou
April 12, 2021
First, my prayers and condolences go out to you and your extended family for your tremendous loss. George was first a "gentlemen" and kind to a fault. George had a quiet demeanor but always had time to share his introspective thoughts with me. I am sad to say that mankind has lost a calming force, but the world is a better place because of his presence here on Earth. I will cherish the moments -brief as they were and hold a special place for George in my thoughts and prayers. May the Lord have Mercy on his Soul and may George forever rest in peace, Charlie Ballou- a Salem colleague.
Wendy Booden
April 12, 2021
George was such a wonderful friend and coworker. Even with his dry sense of humor and witty sarcasm, he was a bright light in my day. He made teaching and working easier for me. We loved our "learning cottages" and were glad to see we were still right beside one another when we were brought into the building. I will miss his conversations, stories, travel ideas, and British tv recommendations. He was a true friend and will be missed. RIP, my friend.
Lynne
April 12, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of George's passing. He was always witty and kept us laughing when things got too serious in meetings. I loved his creativity. He wrote the lyrics for one of the songs that I composed for my students to sing, and the students all loved singing that song. His smile and wit will certainly be missed!
Lily Pan
April 11, 2021
Mr. Thurman’s wisdom and personality was what set him apart from all of the teachers that I’ve ever learned from. He was a great man who was beloved among my classmates. I already miss him. Sincere condolences to his family. Rest In Peace Mr. Thurman.
Lindsey Overstreet
April 11, 2021
I am honored to have known George. I am
honored to have simply walked the same ground that he walked. It’s not often that you meet someone who leaves such a lasting impression, but George was intelligent, selfless, and genuine. It has been quite a few years since the last time that I saw him, but he would still cross my mind often. I am glad to have shared time with him on this Earth. I am glad to have helped bring his poetry to life through music. I am glad that he lived a full life and made so many people, including myself, happy in the moments spent together. While I know that loss is painful, find comfort in the fact that George left a beautiful legacy and was adored by so many.
Lindsey Overstreet
April 11, 2021
I am honored to have known George. I am
honored to have simply walked the same ground that he walked. It’s not often that you meet someone who leaves such a lasting impression, but George was intelligent, selfless, and genuine. It has been quite a few years since the last time that I saw him, but he would still cross my mind often. I am glad to have shared time with him on this Earth. I am glad to have helped bring his poetry to life through music. I am glad that he lived a full life and made so many people, including myself, happy in the moments spent together. While I know that loss is painful, find comfort in the fact that George left a beautiful legacy and was adored by so many.
Lindsey Overstreet
April 11, 2021
I am honored to have known George. I am
honored to have simply walked the same ground that he walked. It’s not often that you meet someone who leaves such a lasting impression, but George was intelligent, selfless, and genuine. It has been quite a few years since the last time that I saw him, but he would still cross my mind often. I am glad to have shared time with him on this Earth. I am glad to have helped bring his poetry to life through music. I am glad that he lived a full life and made so many people, including myself, happy in the moments spent together. While I know that loss is painful, find comfort in the fact that George left a beautiful legacy and was adored by so many.
Maria Makridakis
April 11, 2021
May God rest George’s soul and grant all of his loved ones many healthy years to remember him.
He was a dear friend and a supportive co-worker at Salem HS.
Marianne McMillin
April 11, 2021
I am so thankful that I had the honor of working with George. His wit, his friendly smile, his humility, and his intellect were inspirational. George was a wonderful teacher and colleague. He made the world a better place. My sincere condolences to his beloved wife and family
Clare Whittey
April 11, 2021
Mr.Thurman was the best english teacher, he helped me through rough times when my dad passed and was always very helpful even at times where i couldn’t concentrate or do my work. I never liked english till his class and he made it very enjoyable. He will be very missed and i’m sending love to his family ❤
Nancy Kubu
April 11, 2021
George was a wonderful friend, smart, funny and kind. He will be missed by his family and friends. I loved my time teaching with him and learning from hi.
Valerie Lamb
April 11, 2021
My sincerest condolences to the family. Mr. Thurman will be missed.
Alexia Burford
April 11, 2021
Mr. Thurman was the best English teacher ever! He was my teacher last year right before COVID & I was sad to know he was retiring. He will be greatly missed & I will always love him!
- Alexia Burford
Sharon Stellmach
April 11, 2021
George was a beloved colleague, department chair, and dynamic English teacher at Salem High School. He definitely bordered on brilliance and his students loved his class. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.
Shakirha
April 11, 2021
Mr.Thurman was the best English teacher in Smith High School I loved him as a teacher. Sending love to his family at a time like this❤
Jentyne Chan
April 11, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my 11th grade English teacher at Salem High School from 2004-2005. I considered taking AP English 12 only because he was supposed to be teaching it and I wanted to continue learning from him. English was never my strongest subject, but he made me believe I was a good writer. I am so saddened to hear this. He will be greatly missed. He was a wonderful educator and made a meaningful impact in my life.
Gia Perez
April 11, 2021
Mr.Thurman was one of the best teachers at smith. He made freshman year so enjoyable. May he rest in peace he will be forever missed
Maggie
April 11, 2021
Mr. Thurman taught English class like no other teacher. His class was engaging and fun and his activities were diverse and not just reading. He would let students teach a chapter of the book and his projects were amazing. He will be greatly missed by his students.
Noah Wise
April 11, 2021
He was one of my favorite teachers. He made english enjoyable. May he rest in peace.
Aria Lovelace
April 11, 2021
Mr. Thurman was the type of teacher you never forget and always remember with fondness. He was our favorite. He was our last bell and without fail, no matter how awful the day, we walked into his room smiling and were disappointed when leaving. He not only made me a better learner but a better person. I’m endlessly thankful to have been his student.
Anastasia Jacobsen
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman may have had the title of an English teacher but he was so much more than that- he was a role model and mentor to so many people.
For me, when I had him freshman year, I was struggling big time. And I remember this one day in particular when I turned in an essay I had done in 30 minutes on a book I had never read, he held me after class because I was already staying after school. When everyone else left he picked up my essay and read it out to me word by word, and I was certain he was going to critique every piece of it. But when he finished he told me that I got an A on it (Which I had never done in his class) and that I should be proud.
He then went on to tell me he knew I never read the book but didn’t condone me for it, instead he tried to show me the potential he saw in me.
This seems like such a small event to others but to me, it showed the defining characteristics of mr. Thurman- he was an inspiration and a huge motivator in my life.
Rest In Peace “G. Thermo”
A former student of his
April 10, 2021
Mr.Thurman was an awesome teacher and always knew how to grasp the class’s attention. He will be deeply missed among the IB class of 2023.
Jayla Morch
April 10, 2021
Mr.Thurman was my 9th grade English teacher at Oscar Smith High school. He was one of my favorite teachers I’ve ever had. I always looked forward to going to his class. He was such a good teacher. I never really liked English before Thurman. He will be greatly missed, and I hope one day I’ll get to say thank you for everything you’ve done.
Kennedy Wallace
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my teacher in 10th grade at Oscar Smith High School. Tenth grade was a hard year for me, but Mr. Thurman always put a smile on my face. He was so gentle and funny. He was so passionate about poetry. He told the best stories. He will be missed. My prayers extend to you.
Jahkari Taylor
April 10, 2021
Wow this is unbelievable one of my favorite teachers sending my condolences and prayers to his family he will be missed
Aaron
April 10, 2021
Mr.Thurman was one of few teachers that have made me enjoy English. His class was the highlight of most of my days. May he Rest In Peace
Amani
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was the nicest teacher I ever had. He always helped me even if it was not school related.
Raelynne Thompson
April 10, 2021
George Thurman was not only my English teacher, but also my friend. He used to tell me many stories and I could never tell if he was joking or not because he always had this smirk on his face. I will never forget the smile on his face.
-The girl who gave him Gerald.
Atalysa Harmon
April 10, 2021
Mr.Thurman was the best English teacher I ever had. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Rebecca Barnum
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was one of the kindest teachers. He knew how to help his students grow, and he did incredibly at setting us on track for future endeavours, even beyond the subject of English. He knew how to make us laugh.
Ansh Patel
April 10, 2021
I am not really sure what to say other than Mr. Thurman could not have been a better teacher than he was. He was funny and cool, but at the same time intimidating. My entire IB class was so scared of the reading checks he gave. I will never forget his words, "Take out a piece of paper." We would never know what to expect of him in class, which is what made it so much fun. I could not have asked for a better freshman year in high school. His class is something I will never forgetI send out my prayers to Mr. Thurman's family and Rest in Peace to Mr. Thurman.
The girl who gave him Gerald
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my favorite teacher. He was like a grandfather to me and he told me many stories and I could never tell if he was joking or not because he would always have a smirk on his face. I will miss him forever.
Atalysa Harmon
April 10, 2021
Mr.Thurman was such an amazing teacher and always made my days better. I’m so sorry for your loss.
Tariq Bennett
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was the best teacher i have had in my high school career at Oscar Smith. He helped motivate me to push through my freshman year of IB and he will be forever loved by the Oscar Smith IB family including myself.
I send my deepest condolences to his family, may he rest in paradise.
Abbey Biggs
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was one of my favorite teachers ever. I had always loved English class, but he made me love it even more. He let us be ourselves and explore our personalities. He was incredibly funny and always put up with our antics. Even after he retired and we no longer had him as our teacher, each time we walked by his old classroom, we would remember him and wished he was still teaching. We will all miss him dearly.
Hyouji Joo
April 10, 2021
I had him as my english teacher for last year. He was a wonderful teacher, and I genuinely enjoyed being in that class. Although I most likely annoyed him a lot with my talking and constantly raising my hand, he always managed to put up with me, and joked around. All of my other classmates loved him, and we were all shocked to hear of his passing. We all knew of his health, but we had never expected to say good bye so suddenly. I want to thank Mr.Thurman for the good memories I had of last year before the pandemic, and send my condolences to his family.
Vanessa Plourde
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was my teacher last year during the 2019-2020 school year. Even though my time with him was cut short because of covid-19 he impacted my life in just a few short months. He was an amazing teacher and made my freshman experience so much better. He will be missed daily by the hundreds of students he taught daily, and will all be deeply remembered in our hearts. Rest in Peace Mr Thurman. We love you.
Allison Barber
April 10, 2021
Mr. Thurman was the absolute best English teacher at Salem High School! He was the first person to convince me I was a good writer. I am heartbroken to hear of his passing.
My condolences to his family.
Lara Green
April 10, 2021
He was a truly gifted educator.
Elaine Benwitz
April 10, 2021
My prayers go out to George’s family. It was my pleasure to work with George while we both were at Salem HS.
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