Loyd Donald Thurman was born near Winnsboro, TX on January 21, 1935, and passed away on July 24, 2024 at his home in Terrell, TX. Don graduated from Adamson High School in Dallas, and received a Bachelor and Master of Science in Civil Engineering from Southern Methodist University. He was a Licensed Professional Engineer in Texas, and past President of the Texas Public Health Association. He retired in 1992 from the Texas Department of Health as the Associate Commissioner for Environmental and Consumer Health Protection, and continued his career as an engineer with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency until 1999. In retirement he became active in the City of Terrell serving as a City Councilman, Chairman of the Planning and Zoning Commission, and Chairman of the Tax Increment Financing Committee. He also volunteered at the British Flying Training School Museum of Terrell, serving as the President. Don was ordained as a Deacon in the Baptist Church in 1965 and served in that capacity until his death. He was a faithful and devoted husband, father, and grandfather; a beloved Sunday School teacher for decades; and a trusted mentor and friend to many. He was preceded in death by his father Loyd Cecil Thurman, mother Myrtle Arena (Henry) Thurman, and sister Velma Juanice (Thurman) Pickens. He is survived by his wife of 69 years La Donna Nell (Bourns) Thurman, and he went home to be with the Lord on their anniversary date; sons Randy Thurman and wife Anne of Birmingham, AL; David Thurman and wife Chrissy of Round Rock, TX; and seven grandchildren.

A memorial service will be held at Cornerstone Reformed Church, 113 SH 205, Terrell TX on Saturday August 3 at 2:00pm, with visitation at 1:00pm. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Cornerstone Reformed Church (cornerstonereformed.church) or the British Flying Training School Museum (bftsmuseum.org).