Wesley Bert Thurston, better known as Wes, passed away on September 25, 2024, in his hometown of Shelbyville, Indiana. Born on February 20, 1935, to Walter and Mable (McDaniel) Thurston, Wes was a lifelong resident of Shelbyville and a pillar of the community he so dearly loved.
Wes's life was defined by hard work and service. As a child of the Depression, he began working at a young age, taking on various jobs including carpentry, factory work, and railroad construction. He became a master plumber working with Hoosier Plumbing for many years. Wes joined the Shelbyville Police Department in 1967, attaining the rank of captain 5 years later. He retired in 1998 after 32 years of service. Throughout his career, Wes was known for his dedication to helping others, often providing his skills for little or no pay to those in need.
On August 20, 1955, Wes married his beloved wife Alean, who preceded him in death in 2016. Together, they raised three daughters. Wes was a devoted father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, known for his presence at family events and his willingness to lend a helping hand whenever needed.
Despite his busy professional life, Wes found time for numerous hobbies and community involvements. He was active in the Fraternal Order of Police and the Fraternal Order of Eagles, serving as president of both local chapters. Wes was also a 32nd degree Mason and a member of the Shelbyville Masonic Lodge. He enjoyed bowling, golfing, tennis, and gardening, and volunteered for various causes including the American Heart Association and Habitat for Humanity.
Wes was a graduate of Shelbyville High School, class of 1953, and a member of Blue Ridge Christian Church and St. Joe Social Club.
He was preceded in death by his wife Alean and his parents; brothers, Franklin Pierce Thurston, Maurice Thurston, Walter Thurston, Kenny Thurston, and Joseph Thurston; and sisters, Joann Coffey and Marilyn Baunsbach. His memory will be forever held in the hearts of his surviving family: his daughters, Diana Shook and husband Gregory Shook, Barbara Smith and husband Todd Smith, and Kim Thurston and husband Matt Tracey; his granddaughter, Jennifer (Shook) Mahan and husband Todd Mahan, and grandson Todd Wesley Smith; his great-grand-children, Abigail, Annabelle, and Agnes Mahan; his sisters, Nelda Cheseborough and Linda Garlitch; and his many nieces and nephews.
A service to celebrate Wes’s life will be held on Monday, September 30, 2024 at 12 noon at the Freeman Family Funeral Home in Shelbyville. Friends and Family may gather from 10 am until the time of the service.
Following the service, Wes will be laid to rest at Blue Ridge Christian Cemetery. A meal will be served at Blue Ridge Christian Church immediately after the burial.
Wesley Bert Thurston will be remembered as a loving family man, dedicated public servant, and friend to many. His legacy of kindness, hard work, and community service will continue to inspire all who knew him.
Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, PO Box 90, Memphis, Tennessee 38101-9929.
Online condolences may be shared with Wesley’s family at www.freemanfamilyfuneralhomes.com.
