Roy Jackson Thurmond passed into glory July 29, 2022 surrounded by family at his home in Des Arc, Arkansas. He was born on December 7, 1934 to Virgil Jackson and Marie Coffman Thurmond in Des Arc, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, brothers Granvil, Troy (twin), Ernest, Glenn, infant Lloyd, and sisters Virginia, and infant Ethel. He is survived by wife Betty Rogers O'Bannon Thurmond of 46 years and children Eddie O'Bannon of Hernando, Mississippi, Teresa (Michael) Riley of Des Arc, and Brandi (Jerrod) Williams of Searcy, Arkansas. He is also survived by 6 grandchildren, 5 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews and friends.

Roy was a proud Korean War Veteran serving as gunner on 155 Howitzers. After proudly serving his country, Roy returned to Arkansas where he worked for the state highway department. He retired from an extensive career with the Tennessee Valley Authority's Local 263 as a boilermaker. He was an avid crappie fisherman often seen with his fishing pole in hand at his Spring Lake residence. With a God-given talent of music and song, Roy was locally recognized for his guitar playing and singing, especially with his dedication to the "Disciples" gospel group which served many years at the Des Arc Nursing and Rehabilitation Center. However, his life's greatest concession was his acceptance of Jesus Christ in 1976. He was a devoted member to the Des Arc First Assembly of God Church where he served as musician and elder.

Visitation will be held Sunday, July 31st at Des Arc First Assembly of God Church from 2-4pm. Funeral services will be Monday, August 1st at 2pm at Des Arc First Assembly of God Church with interment to follow at Sand Hill Cemetery. Pallbearers will be Marcus Price, Clint Price, Sonny Cawthorn, Kevin DeVore, Brayden Van Houten, JJ Walicki, Eddie Petty (honorary), JR Weatherly (honorary), Bob Cawthorn (honorary), Matthew Slagley (honorary), Truman Weatherly (honorary), and Chet Greenwood (honorary).

The family would like to extend special appreciation and gratitude to the caregivers at Arkansas Hospice, members of the Des Arc First Assembly of God Church, and the community of Des Arc, Arkansas.