Eric Matthew Thurston passed away on December 17, 2019, in Springfield, MO, at the age of 40. He was born on January 15, 1979, in Springfield, MO, to Frank and Paula Thurston.

Eric was a happy, charming boy with a contagious smile. He excelled in school, especially in music. He earned three "1" ratings for solos on 3 different instruments at state competition, all the same day. He was given the Presidential Academic Achievement Award twice. Eric attended Kickapoo and Parkview High School and MSU Springfield and Columbia. He attended Grace United Methodist Church in Springfield and was baptized January 8, 2017. He enjoyed church and extended help and compassion to many in need.

Eric was preceded in death by his maternal grandmother, Jean Borgmeyer; paternal grandmother, Billie Mitchem. In addition to his parents he is survived by his sisters, Kara Vehawn and Holly Vehawn; nephew, Jameson; niece, Kendal; maternal grandfather, Robert Moreland, and a host of other relatives and friends.

He will be missed greatly.

Burial will be January 4, 2020, in the Linden Cemetery, Linden, MO.