Thurston Franklin Taylor

Remembering the Life of 

Thurston Franklin Taylor

March 31, 1923 – October 19, 2024

Thurston F. Taylor, 101, passed away in Crane, Texas in the early morning hours of October 19, 2024. Thurston was a quiet, humble man, but he was strong in his faith in God. He was loved by many—family, friends, neighbors, and recently, his caregivers. He never wanted to be a bother, but what he didn’t realize is that we wanted to be around him because of his wisdom, kindness, and sense of humor. 

Thurston was born in rural Mitchell County, close to Westbrook, Texas. He was born to the late Lee Roy Taylor and Sallie Ingram Taylor in the Spring of 1923. He was the oldest of their six children. He is survived by siblings Willis Taylor, Mary Lou Medders, and Thelma Ruth Lee. He was predeceased by siblings Hazel Lee Proctor and Myrtle Johnson. The Taylor family lived and worked on a farm.

Thurston graduated from Westbrook High School in 1943. He worked various jobs before he began his career with Phillips 66, later Phillips Conoco. During his time with Phillips 66, Thurston settled in Crane, Texas where he lived for the remainder of his life. 

Thurston married Jessie Jane Applegate Brents, a widow, in August 7, 1976. Thurston became a father figure to her adult children. He loved all of the activity from gatherings with the children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and even some great-great grandchildren. Thurston was predeceased by the children: Dan Brents, Shirley DeShazo, Reta Brents Woodard, Tex Brents, and Jim Brents. Geraldine (Judy) Brents Streety is the surviving member of the family. Jane passed away in 2009. Thurston is also survived by his remaining siblings, grandchildren, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren as well as many nieces, nephews, great and great-great nieces and nephews. 

Thurston was fortunate to enjoy over one hundred years of life and good health up until the last couple of years. He was also very cognizant of past and current events and loved to talk to people. He was a very faithful member of the Crane Mary Street church of Christ in Crane, Texas. He was very strong in his faith and his church family has always been very encouraged by his presence. He will be greatly missed by his church family as well. 

The family would like to thank the doctors, nurses, Crane Focus Care staff, and Hospice for their love and care of Mr. Taylor in the last few months. 

Thurston requested no funeral or graveside services. His internment will be at the Iatan Cemetery in Westbrook, Mitchell County on October 26, 2024.