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Saturday, February 7, 2026
3:00 - 3:45 pm (Mountain time)
Saturday, February 7, 2026
Starts at 4:00 pm (Mountain time)
Ronnie Jay Thurman ("Ron"), age 79, passed away unexpectedly on February 1 at a hospital in St. George, Utah. He and his surviving wife, Julie Ann (Marriott) Thurman, retired to St. George nine years ago.
Ron was born in Provo, Utah, to Melvin and Clara Thurman. He and his siblings, Jerry, Marvin, and Janell lived a life rooted in faith, family, learning, and service. At the age of 19, he served a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in the Eastern States Mission. After returning home, he attended Brigham Young University, where he met the love of his life, Julie. They were married for 57 years. He later earned a Bachelor's degree in Agronomy from Cal Poly Pomona, reflecting a lifelong love of horticulture and learning.
Ron built his career as the owner of Key City Insurance in Victorville, California. Upon his retirement, the agency had four locations across California and Utah. Through his example, three of his sons followed in the family tradition and established insurance agencies of their own. Ron deeply valued the relationships he formed-not only with his clients, but especially with his employees-and was known for his generosity, compassion, and genuine care for others, whether a friend or stranger.
Above all, Ron was a devoted husband and father. He is survived by his wife Julie; his children Sandra Thurman, Paul Thurman, Michelle Swift, Brent Thurman, and Karl Thurman; 20 grandchildren; and 16 great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved deeply and championed with pride.
Ron found joy in fishing the High Uinta Mountains, golfing, playing games, sharing humorous stories and jokes, and immersing himself in books. A lifelong seeker of knowledge, he was rarely without a book and was always learning-from educators, speakers, and his faith. His influence, kindness, and curiosity touched all who knew him and will continue to be felt through the many lives he shaped.
A viewing will take place February 7, from 3:00 - 3:45 p.m. at Spilsbury Mortuary, 110 South Bluff Street, St. George, Utah. Funeral service will follow starting at 4:00 p.m.
Arrangements were made under the direction of Spilsbury Mortuary. 435-673-2454.
Family and friends are invited to share memories and sign Ron's online guestbook at www.SpilsburyMortuary.com
Spilsbury Mortuary
Spilsbury Mortuary
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