Anne Louise Thurston, 66, of Shelbyville, passed away peacefully on June 25, 2025, after a long courageous fight with breast cancer. She was born June 19, 1959, in Frankfort, to Donald L. Sanders and Jane A. Sanders (Stradtman). On April 7, 1979, she married Roger E. Thurston, and he survives. In addition to Roger, Anne is survived by her mother, Jane Stradtman, stepmother Pamela Sanders of Franklin, daughter Reba Kennard (Troy) of Shelbyville, son Will Thurston of Nineveh, and bonus daughter, Megan Thurston of Shelbyville. Also surviving is her sister Linda Sanders (Jeff Wagoner), brother D.L. Sanders (Melissa McDaniel), nephew Aaron Sanders; grandchildren Maddie Kennard (Jaydan Garrett), Kyle Kennard, Alexis Thurston, Chloe Thurston, Keaton Kennard; great grandchildren, James, Nevaeh, Liam and Jadeline, all of Shelbyville.
She was preceded in death by her father, stepfather Dick Stradtman and grandson Nolan Kennard.
Anne was a 1977 graduate of Southwestern High School and is a lifelong Member of the West Street United Methodist Church.
Anne has held the position of Shelby County Assessor since September 2008, and during her tenure received multiple awards including East Central District Assessor of the Year, East Central District President, and ICAA Board of Directors East Central District President. She also worked her favorite "part time" job at H & R Block for 33 years. She was a Member of Business and Professional Women's Association, Member of the International Association of Assessing Officers, and a Member of the Indiana Association of Assessing Officers.
Anne loved everyone and never met a stranger. She participated in community outreach and ministries of the church, judging the Bears of Blue River Parade, riding in parades and the Republican Party, especially manning the booth at the county fair, and working the polls. She enjoyed her church family, going to Beef & Boards with family and friends, playing Euchre with her Assessor friends, watching movies, going to Cagney's, taking family vacations in the Tennessee mountains and being scared of the bears, drinking sweet red wine from Dr. Baker's Brandywine Creek Vineyards & Winery, but most importantly, her family meant the world to her.
Memorial Donations can be made to the West Street United Methodist Church, 629 S. West Street, Shelbyville, IN 46176 or the Cancer Association of Shelby County, 31 Public Square, Shelbyville, IN 46176.
The family would also like to thank the outstanding and caring staff at Ashford Place, MHP and Dr. Cole for all their kindness, concern and care they provided Anne during this difficult journey.
Services will be 11 a.m. on Tuesday, July 1, at West Street United Methodist Church, 629 S. West St. with Pastor Perry Richards officiating. Burial will be in Forest Hill Cemetery
At a later date. Friends may call on Monday evening from 4-8 p.m. at Glenn E.
George & Son Funeral Home, 437 Amos Rd., and also from 10 a.m. until the time of the service, on Tuesday morning, at the church.
Online condolences may be shared at glennegeorge andson.com.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Sponsored by Glenn E. George and Son Funeral Home - Shelbyville.
vicky haire
June 30, 2025
So many good memories with Ann mostly at the Assessors Conference. To know her was to love her . Her quick smile and laugh will be forever missed. RIP my friend. I know you knew and loved Jesus Christ and you are now in his arms.
Robert Huesman
June 30, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Ronnie Shepard
June 30, 2025
To Roger and family my deepest condolences
Scott Quick
June 28, 2025
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
George L Caster
June 27, 2025
In Loving Memory of Anne Thurston
Shelby County Assessor, Friend, and Guiding Light
Anne Thurston was not only my friend but also a leader, a mentor, and a remarkable woman-a truly giving soul.
More than just the Shelby County Assessor and her many accomplishments, Anne was the heart of her office and a steady light in our lives. In a world that often rushes past moments and people, she paused to see and care for others. Even in the darkest times, she found the light and guided us toward it.
She gave not just her time, but also her heart. Whether you faced hardship, tough decisions, or a busy day, Anne reminded you there was always something to look forward to. She inspired perseverance, deeper compassion, and leadership rooted in kindness.
Though her absence leaves a quiet ache, her presence-what she stood for and how she lived-will never fade. Her spirit continues to inspire our kindness toward one another, our grace in difficult moments, and our courage to keep moving forward.
Let us grieve, but let us also remember with gratitude. Let us carry forward the light she shared so generously.
Anne´s story does not end here; it lives on in each of us.
Jennifer Jones (Stewart)
June 27, 2025
My deepest condolences to all of Anne's family and friends. She was a wonderful loving person. I am forever thankful for any time I spent with and around her. God bless. -Jennifer Jones (Stewart)
Penny & Randy Darling
June 27, 2025
My deepest regards. Anne will live forever in the hearts of many. She was definitely a bright, encouraging mentor to me. God has received an angel. God Bless Anne. We will miss you.
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Glenn E. George and Son Funeral Home - Shelbyville437 Amos Road, Shelbyville, IN 46176
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