Sandra Lee Thurman, 86, of Festus died Sept. 13, 2026, at Mercy Hospital Jefferson in Crystal City. Mrs. Thurman worked with her husband as a bookkeeper at Thurman Community Motors in Festus. She loved living on their farm, driving her tractor, fishing, swimming, playing tennis, bowling and playing cards and games with her friends. Born Jan. 28, 1940, in St. Louis, she was the daughter of the late Lillian (Barnes) and Ardell Roth.
She is survived by her husband: Harry Thurman, who had recently celebrated 51 years of their marriage with close friends; two children: Tammy Lee Helms of Harrison, Ark., and Christopher Helms of Branson; numerous grandchildren and great-grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
A graveside memorial service and interment are scheduled for 11 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 1, in Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens in Crystal City. Memorials may be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Arrangements are under the direction of Vinyard Funeral Home in Festus.