Michael Timothy Thurston

Michael Timothy Thurston obituary

Michael Timothy Thurston

Michael Thurston Obituary

Obituary published on Legacy.com by Harry T. Reid Funeral Home - Jasper on Aug. 30, 2025.

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Michael Timothy Thurston
January 19, 1960 – August 26, 2025

Michael Timothy Thurston, affectionately known as "Moose," unexpectedly passed away on August 26, 2025. He was 65.

Born on January 19, 1960, Michael was raised in Largo, Florida, where his love for running began. He was a dedicated track and field athlete and marathon runner, earning the nickname "Moose" for both his strength and presence. He attended Colby College in Maine before spending much of his adult life in Massachusetts, eventually retiring back to the warmth of Florida.

Michael was a man of many passions - he found joy in golf, reading, motorcycles, dancing, and the companionship of his beloved dog, Duke. He was well known for striking up conversations with just about anyone, captivating others with his stories, and giving the tallest, most heartfelt hugs.

He is survived by his wife, Vickie Martin Thurston; his daughter, Tracey Thurston Vanasse; his step-sons, Daniel Hamilton and James Katz; and his step-daughters, Ashley Katz and Cynthia Katz. He was a proud grandfather to seven grandchildren and a cherished brother to Nancy Channell. He also leaves behind two nieces and two nephews who will miss him dearly.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Betty Thurston; his father, James Thurston; and his sisters, Debbie Sibley and Lynn Spears.

Michael will be remembered not only for his love of life and adventure but for the warmth he brought into every room and the way he made people feel truly seen and heard.

A celebration of his life will be held at a later date privately by the family.

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Harry T. Reid Funeral Home - Jasper

901 4th Street NW P.O. Box 71, Jasper, FL 32052

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