Joseph R Thurman

Joseph Richard Thurman, “Doe Doe,” fulfilled his life as a “good and faithful servant” on Wednesday, September 19, 2018 at the age of 85 – A life well done. He will be remembered as a loving husband, father, “Doe Doe,” and mentor of many. He started his career at C.H. Leavell & Company, later establishing several real estate development and construction entities; however, the accomplishments he treasured most were those within his family and the Christian community. Richard was a Deacon for over 50 years and faithful member of First Baptist Church. One of his most cherished roles was directing the Young Married Department with his wife Frances. Richard was a quiet and humble man, who enjoyed his rose garden, woodworking, and time in “Cloudercroft,” as well as being an avid sports fan. His passion for sports came from playing football at Austin High School and for Lamar University; he will continue to root for the Miners, Longhorns, Cowboys, and Yankees from above. For those who knew him well, Doe Doe was a kid at heart, from waking Maddy up on Christmas morning to engineering the perfect Gingerbread House. He was preceded in death by his parents Jess and Effie Thurman, and brother and sister-in-law Jess and Kathy Thurman. He is survived by his loving wife Frances, of 59 years; daughter and son-in-law Laura and Rusty Schwartz; granddaughter Maddy Schwartz; brother Ed Thurman; and sister Judy Sandridge. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or to the charity of your choosing. The family wishes to thank Richard’s precious caregivers, including longtime family companion Marta Perez Ramos, Hospice of El Paso, and Caring Companions, as well as Teresa and the staff of Golden Park who made his last days peaceful. A celebration of life will be held on Wednesday, September 26, 2018 at 1:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church. Private Interment will be held at Fort Bliss National Cemetery. Services entrusted to Sunset Funeral Home-West, 480 N. Resler Dr. Please visit our online registry at www.sunsetfuneralhomes.net.