Odean Thurman

Odean Thurman, 84, of New Castle went to be with the Lord on Monday, March 10, 2025. He was born April 6, 1940 in Aaron, Kentucky to the late James Thurman and Beulah (Gibson) Cross.

Odean graduated from Sulphur Springs High School in 1958 and started working at Borg Warner. He demonstrated a strong work ethic throughout his career, serving as a supervisor and eventually retiring from Borg Warner. He also worked at Chrysler for a time during his career. Odean was known for his very unique sense of humor that truly defined him. He had a playful spirit and loved to engage in light-hearted banter, often teasing those around him in a warm and affectionate manner. A devoted member of Kennard Baptist Church, Odean found profound meaning in his faith. For over 34 years, he served as the church clerk and media man, demonstrating unwavering support for his pastor and the church community. Known affectionately as the "candy man" by the children, he was a figure of generosity and joy within the church. No matter the event or occasion, he was always involved, reflecting his deep commitment to his faith and his community.

Odean's love for sports was evident in his enthusiastic support for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Indiana University basketball. He cherished the times spent traveling across the country with his wife, Wanda, to watch Dodgers games, creating memories that would last a lifetime. In quieter moments, he enjoyed watching old westerns, often sharing these experiences with his loved ones.

Odean is survived by his loving wife of 64 years, Wanda Thurman of New Castle; three children, Barry (Debbie) Thurman of New Castle, Sharon (Brian) Wagaman of Indianapolis, and Tony Thurman of Winter Park, Florida; grandchildren, Brittany (Brock) Davis, Stephen Thurman, Ashley (Jon) Watkins, John (Katelyn) Koepf, and Gunner Thurman; great grandchildren, Carmen Davis, Corbin (Cowboy) Davis, Scarlett Thurman, and Silas Thurman; siblings, Sue (Jack) Stockton, Betty (Gale) Whiles, and Larry Michael Thurman; several nieces and nephews; and best friends, Warren (Bonnie) Catron.

In addition to his parents, Odean is preceded in death by his daughter and twin of Sharon, Karen Thurman; siblings, Jim Thurman and Colleen Stephens; and grandson, Jeremy Ward.

Services will be at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 14, 2025 at Kennard Baptist Church, 6931 West County Road 100 South, Shirley, IN 47384, with Pastors Brent Weaver and Brock Davis officiating. Burial will follow at Green Hills Memory Gardens. Visitation will be held from 5:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 13 at Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle. You may express condolences or share a memory of Odean at hinsey-brown.com.