Kirk Douglas Thurman

Kirk Douglas Thurman, 74, of Faulkville, Georgia, passed away on August 13, 2026, surrounded by the family he loved so dearly.Kirk was born in Muncie, Indiana on March 22, 1952. His life took him many places—from Indiana to Florida and California—before he finally anchored down in Georgia, the place he would call home.Kirk proudly served his country in the United States Army. After his time in the service, he continued his education at what he liked to call “The School of Hard Knocks.” If you knew Kirk, you knew there was probably no better description. Life taught him plenty, and he wasn’t afraid to share what he’d learned.In 1977, Kirk married the love of his life, Carole. For nearly a half-century, they shared a life together filled with family, adventures, challenges, laughter, and countless memories. They were looking forward to celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary in 2027—a milestone that spoke to a lifetime spent side by side.Kirk was fiercely independent, and unapologetically himself. He rarely left anyone wondering where he stood. But perhaps the name that suited him best was “Captain Kirk.” He was an avid fisherman and skilled angler, but for Kirk, fishing was about more than what was on the end of the line. The water was his happy place. It was where he found peace, and there were few places he would rather be than on a boat with a fishing rod in his hand.He loved God, making memories with his family, tending to his garden, looking after his chickens and spending time with his beloved dog Copper. He had a big personality and an unforgettable sense of humor. His antics could leave everyone shaking their heads one minute and laughing the next. Those stories, the laughter, the fishing tales, and all the unforgettable “Kirk moments” will be told and retold for generations.Kirk is survived by his devoted wife, Carole Thurman; his children, Ann (Pete) Richardson of Pierson, Florida, Sean (Mary) Thurman of Guyton, Georgia, and Erica (Craig) Burgstiner of Ellabell, Georgia; his dad, Robert Bowers of Hollywood, Florida; and his siblings, Paula Thurman, Strom Thurman, Jill Fagnani, Shauna Eastlake, and JohnieSue Thurman.He was incredibly proud of his nine grandchildren: William, Phillip, Troy, Tiffany, Finlee, Zeppelin, Penni, Maria and Sean Douglas Jr. ; also his seven great-grandchildren: Brayden, Paisley, Taylor, Wylee, Holly, Evelyn, and Bo.Kirk was preceded in death by his mother and father Joyce Bowers and John Thurman; his brothers, Steve and John Thurman; and his son, John Thurman.Kirk’s wishes were to be cremated without a formal service. He requested that his ashes be scattered in the saltwater, where he loved to be.

Thomas C. Strickland & Sons Funeral Homes - West Chatham Chapel - 912-748-2444