Michael Leroy Thurston

Michael Leroy Thurston, 70, passed away April 15, 2024. He was born March 27, 1954, in Fort Scott, KS, to Mary Ann (Monroe) Thurston and Richard Wesley Thurston. Mike was raised in Fort Scott, KS and graduated from Fort Scott High in 1972. In 1976 he joined the United States Air Force, stationed in Okinawa, Japan. In 1980 he joined the National Guard, stationed at McConnell Air Force Base, Wichita, KS. He retired from the Air Force after 30 years of service. 

Mike’s love for music began at an early age. He played the drums for the King Cobras, Accents, and Meridian bands. He also enjoyed fishing, daily trips to QT for scratch tickets, finding treasures at estate sales, and being a Papa. He had a sense of humor throughout his life, even when he knew his time on earth was coming to an end. Mike’s love for his family and friends was unmeasurable and he will be dearly missed.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents and an older brother, Johnnie Lee. He is survived by his wife Janise; children Sarah Thurston, Adam Thurston (Nicki), Leigh (Jeff) McCoy, and Debra Schlender; granddaughter Kyla Schlender; sisters Marsha Koppa (George), Cindy Mumbower (James Hawkins); and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Military Honors will be held at 10:00 a.m., Friday, May 10, 2024, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery, 900 E National Ave, Fort Scott, KS. A brief memorial service and luncheon will follow at 11:00 a.m. at the Grace Baptist Tabernacle, 502 S Margrave St, Fort Scott, KS. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests contributions be made to the Grace Baptist Tabernacle, 502 S Margrave St, Fort Scott, KS, 66701.

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