Paul E. Thurman

Paul E. Thurman, 95, of Chillicothe, passed away on Sunday, November 13, 2022 at his residence surrounded by his family. He was born March 15, 1927 in Chillicothe to the late Floyd and Maude (Ewing) Thurman.  He is survived by his children Randy (Becky) Lingo, Paula (Greg) Elliott, and Eugenia (Joe) Benson, 12 grandchildren, 19 great-grandchildren, his beloved dog, Henry, and an extended family. He was preceded in death by his wife of 54 years, Josephine, his daughter Robbie Lingo, and 10 siblings. 

     A veteran of the United States Navy and Ohio National Guard, Thurman served in WWII and the Korean War.  Having proudly served on the USS Missouri, he led a nationwide effort to preserve the battleship after it was decommissioned.  Throughout his life he was committed to veterans’ causes and donated his time to many organizations including the local WWII Monument, AMVETS, VFW and the American Legion. 

     In his civilian life, Thurman worked at the Mead Corporation for 42 years.  He was extremely active in his community as a long-time member of First United Methodist Church, the Chillicothe Evening Lions Club, and the Ross County Historical Society.  He served as a past board member of the Ross County Senior Citizens Group of Ohio, and many other organizations serving the senior community.  Additionally, he served on the Chillicothe City Council for 24 years.

     The family would like to extend a special “thank you” to the staff of 3B at the Adena Regional Medical Center for the extraordinary care and attention given to Paul and compassion shown to our family during this time.

     Funeral services will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, November 19, 2022 in the WARE FUNERAL HOME with Pastor Greg Elliott officiating.  Burial will follow in Greenlawn Cemetery where Military Graveside Rites will be conducted by the Ross County Veterans Honor Guard.  Friends may call at the WARE FUNERAL HOME from 5 to 8 p.m. Friday. 

     In lieu of flowers, the family has asked for donations to be made to the Ross County Humane Society 2308A Lick Run Road Chillicothe, Ohio 45601 or to any of the local veterans’ service organizations.

     You may sign his online register at www.warefh.com

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