Gloria Dean (Polk) Thurman

Gloria Dean Thurman, 75, of Crossett, passed away on Wednesday, March 18, 2026. She was born on November 12, 1950, and was a proud graduate of Bastrop High School, Class of 1968.

Gloria was a faithful and active member of First Baptist Church of Crossett, where she devoted many years to serving in the nursery. She had a servant’s heart and found great joy in caring for others, especially the youngest members of her church family.

She worked for several years at State Farm Insurance, but many will fondly remember Gloria from her time at the Paul Sullins Library, where she worked for numerous years. Being surrounded by books was a perfect fit for her, as reading was one of her greatest passions. She read constantly and loved getting lost in a good story.

Gloria also enjoyed researching genealogy, tending to her flower gardens, and baking for those she loved. Her pound cake and lemon icebox pie were family favorites and often requested at gatherings.

She had a joyful spirit and a love for people that was evident to everyone she met. Gloria was always happy, always kind, and never met a stranger. Though she never competed on the show, she was a true Jeopardy! champion at heart and often arranged her day so she wouldn’t miss an episode.

Above all, Gloria’s faith in God was the foundation of her life and the most important thing to her. She loved Jesus deeply and wanted everyone to know Him. Second only to her faith was her love for her family. She treasured every moment spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who brought her endless pride and happiness.

Along with her parents she is preceded in death by a sister, Bonnie McIntyre and grandmother, Ola Belle Armstrong.

She leaves behind her husband of fifty-six years, Lamar Thurman of Crossett; one son, Todd Thurman of Crossett; one daughter, Megan Harris (Chris) also of Crossett; one sister, Rose Riles (Billy) of Bastrop, Louisiana and one brother, Michael Polk (Suzy) of Ruston, Louisiana; three grandchildren, Hope, McKinley and Camryn and five great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life Service will be held at 11:00 a.m., Saturday, March 21st, at the First Baptist Church of Crossett, 701 Main St., with Pastor Phillip Slaughter officiating, followed by interment at Lacey Cemetery under the direction of Medders Funeral Home of Crossett.  Pallbearers are Kevin Cosby, Barry Barnett, Danny Ray Thurman, Kip Carter, Bryson Carter, and Lindy Thurman.

Visitation will be from 10:00 – 11:00 a.m., Saturday at the church prior to the service.

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