Anne Wilson Terry Thurman

Anne Wilson Terry Thurman, passed away peacefully on Thursday, August 28, 2025, at the age of 75. Anne was born on Tuesday, August 15, 1950, in Paducah, Kentucky, to the late Robert and Hazel Terry.
 
Anne's professional life was characterized by an unwavering commitment to bettering the lives of others. For 40 years, she devoted her time and talents as the vice president and director of human resources at Four Rivers Behavioral Health in Paducah. Her legacy within the organization is one of transformative leadership and heartfelt mentorship, and her contributions were instrumental in shaping the nurturing work environment for which the organization is known today.
 
Beyond her professional pursuits, Anne was deeply rooted in her hometown of Paducah. Her love for physical activity led her to enjoy regular exercise, which kept her vibrant and full of life. Gardening was one of her cherished pastimes, and she took particular joy in working amidst her flower gardens. She was dedicated to her faith community at Paducah First Baptist Church, where her care and thoughtfulness shone brightly as she tended to the nursery and lovingly took flowers to those who were shut-in.
 
Anne’s enjoyment of life found expression as an avid fan of the University of Kentucky men’s basketball team through every season. This zest for life was matched by her love of traveling with her husband. Together, they explored new places, creating memories that would be cherished forever.
 
To describe Anne as kind would be an understatement; she was the embodiment of compassion. Her radiant smile and warm demeanor lifted the spirits of everyone around her. She had an exceptional ability to make every individual feel seen, heard, and valued.
 
As Anne's earthly journey comes to a close, those who had the pleasure of knowing her find comfort in the thought that her legacy of kindness and love will continue to live on. Through the stories shared, the gardens cultivated, and the community service carried forward, Anne's spirit will forever bloom in the hearts of many and will be deeply missed.
 
Mrs. Thurman is survived by her husband of 56 years, Jimmy Dale Thurman; her sister, Martha Colthorp (Gary) of Franklin, Tennessee; her nieces, Paula Ellis and Tina Ellison; her nephews, David and Mike Troutman; her great nieces, Madison Ellis, Jessie Elison, and Chaney Troutman; her great nephews, Grayson Ellis, Jack Ellison, and Graham Troutman.
 
Mrs. Thurman was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Young Terry and Hazel Scott Terry.
 
Funeral services are scheduled for 1:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at Milner & Orr Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Paducah with Rev. Tommy Tucker officiating.
 
Visitation will be held from 11:00 A.M. to 1:00 P.M. on Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at the funeral home.
 
An inurnment will take place in the future at Brook Hill Cemetery.
 
Expressions of sympathy may take the form of contributions to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.
 
Share a memory or leave a message for the family at www.milnerandorr.com.