Russell Thurman

Russell Roy Thurman, 89, died Sunday, November 13, 2011. He was born to the late Joseph Matthew Thurman and Sallie (Graham) Thurman in Indianapolis. He was the sixth of seven children. Russell's siblings preceded him in death. At an early age Russell and his parents moved to Campbellsville, Kentucky to manage the family farm. In 1943, he was united in marriage to Eugenia Kirtley. To this union, one child was born. After a period of time Russell and Eugenia returned to Indianapolis. Russell was employed by GM Allison Gas Turbine, retiring after 37 years of service. He also owned and operated, "Russell's Barber Shop," located on West 32nd Street from 1954 until 1988. Russell was a 50 year member of Southern Cross Lodge 59 of the M.W. Prince Hall Grand Lodge F. & A.M. of Indiana. He was also a member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Indianapolis. Russell, affectionately known as "Daddy Russell," is survived by his wife of 69 years, Eugenia (Kirtley) Thurman; son, Roy R. Sr. (Maxine) Thurman, Indianapolis, Indiana; grandchildren, Jacqueline (Barrett) Keyes, Raleigh, NC, Roy R. Jr. (Randa) Thurman; Indianapolis, IN, Regina (Christopher) Russell, Kalamazoo, MI; 12 great-grandchildren; sisters-in-law, Maxine Christian, Maywood, IL, Josephine Williams, New Albany, IN, Louie B. Ferrell, Sun City West, AZ, Vera Kirtley, Maywood, IL; special niece, Rose Woodson and a host of nieces, nephews and friends. Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 19, 2011 in Flanner and Buchanan - Washington Park North , 2706 Kessler Blvd. West Drive, Indianapolis, Indiana, with viewing from 10 a.m. until Noon, with the service immediately following. Burial will be in Washington Park North Cemetery. You are invited to go to the Guest Book page to pass along your personal message or tell a story. Sincerely, -Your friends at Flanner and Buchanan