Racine – Mary Nell Thurman, 74, passed away unexpectedly at home on Tuesday, September 22, 2009. She was born in Mayfield, Kentucky on January 17, 1935, daughter of the late L.E. and Cornell (nee: Milliken) Duffy. Mary was married to Samuel Edward Thurman on October 3, 1951. She and Edward then made their home in Racine. Mr. Thurman passed away at an early age in 1965.

Mary was a member of Greater Mt. Eagle Missionary Baptist Church; and also of the Order of the Eastern Star. She was well known for her great sense of humor and for her direct honesty. She loved to help others, and would take in anyone that she thought needed help in their lives. She was proud to be a homemaker and mom, and her greatest love was for her family. She also adored being in her yard, believing that nature was one of God's greatest gifts.

Mary is survived by her loving companion for the last 25 years, Cawthorne Dawkins of Racine; two sons, Anthony (Anne) Thurman, Aaron Stephens both of Racine; two daughters, Cynthia (Johnnie) Warren of Highland, California, Michelle (Timothy) Johnson of Racine; her one brother, Keith Duffy of Racine; two sisters, Charlene Duffy of Paducah, Kentucky, Georgia Beadles of Racine; 23 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two aunts, Udell Duffy of Murray Kentucky, Mable Duffy of Mayfield, Kentucky; as well as a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends. In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by her sons, Samuel E. Thurman, Jr., and infant son Terrel Tilman Stephens; her brothers, Eddie Duffy, Taylor Duffy, and Donnie Duffy; and her sister, Felicia Duffy.

Homegoing services will be held in the funeral home at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 29, 2009 with Rev. Charles E. Thornhill officiating. Interment will follow at Graceland cemetery. Visitation will begin in the funeral home at 10:00 a.m.