Doris 'Dorie' Thurston, longtime resident of Culpeper, passed away January 17, 2024 at The Culpeper. She was 93 years old and was known for her resilient and loving spirit. 

Born Doris Herndon on August 8, 1930 to parents, Claude C. Herndon, Sr. and Ruby Tanner in Brightwood, Madison County, Virginia. 

Dorie is predeceased by her husband, David Vernon Thurston, and her siblings, Claude, Jr., Florence, and Elizabeth. 

Dorie is survived by her daughter, Lou Ellen Thurston Miller (husband Michael) of Culpeper, and her grandson, Fielding Thurston Miller of Aspen, Colorado. 

Also surviving Dorie are close friends, Patsy and Ron Frye, Jan and Wayne Carwile, Clark Taylor, Judy Gore, and Kelli Wharton, as well as nieces and nephews.

She was a longtime member of Culpeper Baptist Church. She taught ballet and tap dance for children, had an obsession with Kleenex tissues, and was a fitness instructor in her daughter's business where she was feared for her brutal core workouts. 

Dorie was a dedicated friend and consummate host. She enjoyed many trips, especially to the beach, and spending quality time with her family and friends. In her later years she maintained her relationships, mind, and wit. Of all the many roles she took on, the most cherished was that of grandmother. 

Special thanks and gratitude are given to the staff of The Culpeper. 

A private interment took place at Fairview Cemetery. 

A celebration of her life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, April 13, 2024 at Found and Sons Funeral Chapel, 850 Sperryville Pike, Culpeper with Hans Murdock officiating. 

An online guestbook and tribute wall are available at www.foundandsons.com 

Found and Sons Funeral Chapel of Culpeper is serving the family.

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