James "Jim" Lee Thurman

Jim Thurman

Ava, Missouri

James “Jim” Lee Thurman, 88 years, 1 month, 4 days old, passed away peacefully on, April 1, 2026, at Cox South Hospital in Springfield, Missouri, with Virginia and children by his side.

Jim was born February 28, 1938, in Sweden, Missouri, to “Mack” and Cleo (Rippee) Thurman.

He grew up in the Sweden community and graduated from Ava High School in 1957.

On May 29, 1959, Jim and Virginia Loomis were united in marriage in Drury, Missouri, by the Reverend Zim Simms and together were blessed with two children, Carla and Roger.

Jim was an Insurance Agent and owned and operated Jim Thurman Insurance for several years. When he sold the business he became an Insurance Claims Adjustor until his retirement.

Jim never met a stranger. He and Virginia loved visiting with people, especially at Subway and McDonald’s. Having a cup of coffee with Jim was always engaging and fun. His smile was a delight and kind. Some of his friends knew that he could be a very good teaser or prankster. Jim adored and loved his family and always wanted to be there for them and be a provider. He will be greatly missed by his family and the community.

He was a Christian and always attended church with Virginia. His faith in his Lord was unwavered.

Jim was preceded in death by his parents; one brother, Dale Thurman, infant sister; and son-in-law Bill Mills.

Jim is survived by his wife, Virginia; children, Carla Mills and Roger (Teresa) Thurman; grandchildren, Jason and Becca Mills, Tiffany Thurman, and Kendall and Karsyn Thurman; great grandchildren, Elijah, Kynzleigh, and Kassidy; nieces, nephews, extended family, and numerous friends.

Graveside services for Jim will be Monday, April 6, 2026 at 2:00 P.M. in the Ava Cemetery, Ava, Missouri. Officiating will be Pastor Robert Roberts. Family requests in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.