Richard Harry Thurman, 78, of Freeman, Missouri, left this world peacefully on Friday, June 6, 2025 at his home. Graveside services with inurnment will be held at 11:00am on Friday, June 20, 2025 in Maquon Cemetery in Maquon, IL, followed by a luncheon for family and friends at the Maquon United Methodist Church Fellowship Hall.

Richard was born on November 5, 1946 in Peoria, Illinois, to Reece and Geneva (Scudder) Thurman, and grew up in the close-knit community of Maquon, IL. In 2011, he moved to Freeman, MO, to be closer to his family, where he continued to nurture the bonds that meant so much to him.

Richard served his country honorably as a member of the United States Navy during the Vietnam War. In 2000, he retired as Chief Master Sergeant from the Illinois Air National Guard after 20 years of dedicated service. His commitment to his country was matched only by his devotion to his family and community. Richard was a passionate member of the Maquon United Methodist Church and proudly served as Vice Commander of the American Legion John P. Hand Post 250 in Louisburg, Kansas.

Richard was preceded in death by his parents and his brother, Ronald Thurman. He is survived by his loving wife, Madelyn Thurman, of the home; his children: Katie (Chris) Schork of Harrisonville, MO; Tracy (Chris) Fountain of Palmyra, MO; Craig Thurman of Maquon, IL; and Kristi (Thomas) Meeks of Harrisonville, MO; his siblings: Mike Thurman of Maquon, IL; Robert Thurman of Florida; and Carol McCollum of Madison, Wisconsin; and his grandchildren: Tristan Fountain, Sydney Fountain, Lance Schork, Maggie Schork, Kylie Meeks, Kenzie Meeks, and Judson Meeks, all of whom he adored deeply.

His family extends their most sincere gratitude for the outpouring of support and love during this difficult time. He will be dearly missed but forever cherished in the hearts of those who loved him.