Stuart C. Thurston, Jr.

Charlton - Stuart C. Thurston, Jr., 87, died Saturday, May 4, 2024 at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, MA. after a long illness.

Stuart was born  in Worcester, MA on June 13, 1936, son of the late Stuart C. and Marjorie (Simpson) Thurston.  He grew up in Rutland, MA, and graduated from Rutland High School with the class of 1954.  He went on to earn an Associate Degree at the University of Rhode Island.  Stuart was a veteran of the US Army.  He spent his adult life in Boylston, MA, where he raised his family, and he worked as an architect.  An avid marathon runner, Stuart ran in over 74 runs.  He was a founder of Stu's 30k Race, a race which is run around the Wachusett Reservoir, and which also serves as a preclude to the Boston Marathon for many runners.   Over the course of 35 years, Stuart served as race director, organizer, and volunteer for the race which is named for him for.  He also helped to start the Deer Run and the Trail Run in Central MA.  All three events were organized by the Central MA Striders running club.  

His wife, Myrtle L. (Tremblay) Thurston, died in November of 2015.  He is survived by his daughter, Sally Thurston, of Southbridge, MA.  He is predeceased by his son, Michael Thurston, who died May 5, 2023.  

Sansoucy Funeral Home, 40 Marcy Street, Southbridge, MA, is entrusted with Stuart's private funeral arrangements.  In his memory, kindly consider making a memorial donation to the North Shore Animal League America, 25 Davis Avenue, Port Washington, NY 11050 (or online at takeaction.animalleague.org).  

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