Terry Barton Thurman

On April 12, 1933 in Dallas, Texas, Bernice (Barton) and Walter Thurman celebrated Terry’s birth. He was raised in Little Forest Hills, where he began his journey to the self-made man he became. He taught himself how to repair cars as a young teenager, which later led to his first career as a certified mechanic. As a teenager, he and his best friend had matching black Cadillac convertibles, which caught many a girl’s eye, since he was a handsome young man.

In 1951, he joined the U. S. Navy, and was honorably discharged in 1954. In 1956, he was accepted into the U.S. Air Force Cadet Academy; however, he left the Academy shortly thereafter to return home to a girl who he had dated for a short period. Terry knew this girl, who lived on his street, was his true love, and didn’t want to risk losing her. Terry and Cecilia Parsons wed on June 7, 1957, and moved to a small house in Little Forest Hills.

In 1958, they welcomed their only child, Teresa, and the family moved to Mesquite, Texas. Terry and Cecilia moved to their current home in Casa Linda in 1978.

Terry retired from the Dallas Fire Department in 1988 after 28 years of service. He worked many years at station 11, and ended his 28-year career at station 31 as a Captain. He elected to not advance past Captain so he could remain an active firefighter. In addition to his accomplishments as mechanic and firefighter, Terry was a licensed Journeyman Plumber, and a licensed Journeyman Electrician. He bought and rebuilt many homes, most in the Casa Linda area. In his spare time, he rebuilt computers.

Terry was an extremely hard-working man. He knew what he wanted and got what he wanted. He also had a heart as large as his broad chest. He loved his family, and sacrificed to make sure his wife, daughter, and grand-daughter could live wonderful lives. He also loved animals, and all living things. He had a magic touch that attracted animals to him, and his beloved pets lived long lives.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his sister, Dianne; his grand-daughters, Katelyn and Sarah Venable; and many pets he loved throughout his years. He is survived by his loving wife, Cecilia; daughter and son-in-law, Teresa and Rick Venable; his grand-daughter, Lindsay; and his beloved cat, Angel.

Visitation will be Wednesday, September 30, from 12:30 to 2:00 pm, at Grove Hill Funeral Home, 3920 Samuell Blvd., Dallas, 75228.

His service will begin at 2:00 pm, followed by Firefighter and Navy honors at his graveside.