Barbara JoAnn Thurston

Barbara JoAnn Thurston, age 70, passed away Monday, April 17, 2023 at her home near Greenville. She was born August 8, 1952 at Poplar Bluff, MO, the daughter of Forrest and Mildred (Dougherty) Eads. A lifelong resident of Wayne county, Joann was married to Lonnie Thurston November 14, 1969 at Williamsville. She was a homemaker and a long time member of the Williamsville United Methodist Church.

  Preceding her in death are her parents, Forrest and Mildred Eads, one brother, Junior Eads and one sister, Judy Eads.

  Survivors include her husband of 53 years, Lonnie Thurston, of the home, 4 children, Sheila Bridges, of Perryville, MO, Mark Thurston, of Jackson, MO, Darren Thurston, of Silva,  Michael Thurston and his wife Jessica, of Wappapello,  1 brother, Donnie Eads and his wife Sue, of St. Charles, IL, 3 sisters, Peggy York, of Williamsville, Sharon Eisenbeis and her husband Doug, of Williamsville and Robin Barks and her husband Ronnie, of Silva.

  Also surviving are 9 grandchildren, Dustin Bridges and his wife Brianna, Jessy Bridges, Kaytlin Thurston, Kacie Finney and her husband Sean, Aaron Thurston, Evan Thurston, Willem Thurston, Liam Thurston, Stephen Thurston, 1 great grandchild, Lynnlee Bridges, along with many nieces, nephews and other family and friends.

  Joann was a loving wife, mother and grandmother. She held a special place in the hearts of her entire family and will always be remembered for the comfort and love she gave to everyone. She opened her heart and home to all. Her smile alone told everyone that they were welcomed and everyone always enjoyed being with her and Lonnie. It did not matter what task you asked of her, without hesitation she would accommodate as best as she could. She will be greatly missed by all that knew and loved her.

  Funeral services were held on Thursday, April 20, 2023 at the Morrison Funeral Chapel in Greenville with Lay Minister Nelma Williams officiating. Special recorded songs were played for the service and Dustin Bridges, Jessy Bridges, Evan Thurston, Aaron Thurston, Eddie Hovis, Andy Hovis, Jacob Barks and Caleb Barks served as Pallbearers. Willem Thurston and Liam Thurston served as Honorary Pall Bearers. Interment was in the White Hollow Cemetery under the direction of Morrison Funeral Chapel.