Olney Nell Lundy Thurston's Obituary
Olney blessed this world with her presence for 38,095 days—each one touched in some way by her iconic flair. She was an impossible woman to forget. Born on August 18, 1921, in Sulphur Bluff, Texas, to Lester Goodman Lundy and Cannie Cranford Lundy, she spent many years working for Southwestern Bell as a telephone operator. She married Billy Charles “Bucky” Thurston on September 25, 1948, he preceded her in death after 55 years of marriage. Together, they raised three beautiful children—Phillip Thurston (spouse Wendy), Tim Thurston, and Lana Rodgers—who were the pride of her life.
Olney was the heart of her family. She was the best mother and grandmother: fierce, devoted, endlessly patient, and always there with a gentle word or loving hug. She was headstrong, determined, and wonderfully strong-willed, especially in her latter days. She loved the small things in life, like game shows and crossword puzzles, which probably contributed to her remaining sharp-minded for all 104 years of her life. Her gold shoes sparkled almost as brightly as her spirit.
She leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Lisa and Dexter Laffin; Britney and Mitch York; Matthew and Lauren Thurston; Cody Rodgers; Abby and Tyler Jewell; Jordan and Samone Thurston; Micah Thurston; and the memory of her beloved grandson, Grant Thurston, who preceded her in death.
Her love continues through her great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild: Samuel and Violet Thurston; Madeline Lindley; Megan Laffin; Caleb York; Westen Jones; Jax, Stella, and Beck Thurston (who preceded her in death); Asher, Aspen, and Cross Thurston; Ember Thurston; Isabella and Elijah Thurston; as well as Alton Lindley.
Though our hearts ache, we find comfort knowing she leaves behind a legacy of love, resilience, and joy. We will miss her gold-shoe sparkle and her endless warmth—but most of all, we will miss the way she made every one of us feel cherished.
Visitation will be held at Restland Funeral Home on Thursday, December 11, 2025, from 4:00 to 8:00 p.m. in the Gardenia Suite. The funeral service will be held at Restland Funeral Home in the main chapel on Friday, December 12, 2025, at 10:30 a.m., with a graveside service immediately following at 11:30 a.m.
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