Roy Thurmond

1953 - 2025

Roy Frederick "Fred" Thurmond, age 72 of Salem, passed away on Friday, November 7, 2025, at his home.

Fred was born on August 20, 1953, in Harrisburg, Illinois, the son of Eugene and Bonnie (Warmelink) Thurmond. He married Doris (Brinkman) Thurmond on April 5, 1986, in Okawville, Illinois and she survives in Salem.

Also surviving are his children, Jess Thurmond of Salem, Jayme Thurmond of Salem, and Elizabeth Thurmond and fiancé Dustin O'Dell of Witt; step children, Melita Trousdale and husband Tony of Louisville and Moria Jones of Hord; sister, Nancy Purdy of Mattoon; nephews, Ryan Purdy and wife Trisha of West Chicago, Sean Purdy and wife Sarah of Houston, Texas, and Neil Purdy of Mattoon; great nephew and niece, Ethan and Claire Purdy; along with several aunts, uncles, and cousins.

Fred attended Mattoon High School and after graduation attended Lakeland College in Mattoon. He was proud of the fact that he became the youngest Democratic Mattoon Township precinct committeeman at the age of 18.

Fred started his working career at Trail Mobile in Mattoon and later went to work at World Color Press in Salem. He later worked and retired as the Administrator of the Centralia Moose Lodge #1219, where he was also a lifetime member and received his Pilgrim Degree. Fred was also a long-time member of the Salem Masonic Lodge where he was a past Grand Master.

In his free time, Fred could be found in his yard where he always planted a large garden. He also enjoyed fishing, bowling, and golfing.

Celebration of life services for Roy Frederick "Fred" Thurmond will be held on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at Crouse Funeral Home in Salem. There will be a time to visit with the family from 1:00 p.m. until the time of the service. Memorial contributions can be made to the Mooseheart Child City and School in Aurora, Illinois and will be received at the funeral home. Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.