Howard Thurston

Naugatuck, CT Howard E. Thurston, lovingly known as “Eddie” to those dearest to him, passed away peacefully on February 4, 2025 at the age of 87 in the VITAS Inpatient Hospice Care Unit at St. Mary’s Hospital.

Howard was born August 16, 1937 in Waterbury, CT a son of the late James Francis and Helen (Dowling) Thurston and lived a life defined by kindness, warmth and an unwavering devotion to his family, faith and community.

A proud lifelong Naugatuck resident, Howard’s roots ran deep. He attended St. Francis of Assisi Grammar School, graduated from Sacred Heart High School and continued his education at the Connecticut School of Electronics in New Haven. His work ethic began early, at just 15 he joined the family business, D. Thurston & Sons, delivering ice around town. After serving six years in the United States Army Reserve, achieving the rank of sergeant, Howard returned home to dedicate himself fully to the family business.

As co-owner of Thurston Oil & Ice, a Naugatuck staple for over 103 years, Howard led with integrity, warmth and a deep commitment to his customers. Even after retiring, his love for connecting with people continued. He spent another 15 years working at Ion Bank, cherishing the camaraderie of his co-workers and the relationships he built along the way.

A man of deep faith, Howard lived his Catholic values daily. A devoted member of St. Francis Church, he served on the Parish Council and could always be found lending a helping hand at church events. His faith wasn’t just something he practiced, it was the foundation of who he was, guiding him in every aspect of life.

Beyond work and faith, Howard was a pillar of his community. He volunteered tirelessly, served Naugatuck in civic roles and left a lasting impression on the baseball field. A dedicated Little League coach, he proudly pitched in the very first Peter J. Foley Little League Baseball Game, a cherished memory he carried throughout his life.

At the heart of everything, was his family. Howard shared an extraordinary love story with his high school sweetheart, Janet Breault Thurston, his wife of 64 years. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter and happiness. Howard took immense pride in being a devoted husband, father, grandfather and great grandfather.

Howard is survived by his loving wife, Janet Thurston of Naugatuck, CT; his beloved children, Michele Thurston Dashner (John) of Geneva, IL; H. Todd Thurston (Maureen Shea) of Barrington, RI and Deborah Thurston of Naugatuck, CT. His legacy lives on through his cherished grandchildren, Michael Dashner (Martina), Matthew Dashner, Keegan Dashner, Maxwell Thurston, Owen Thurston, Molly Thurston and his precious great granddaughter, Gray Marie Dashner. In addition to his parents, Howard was predeceased by his brother, James F. Thurston, Jr. and his sister, Barbara Thurston Engle.

Howard’s enthusiasm for life was unmatched. A lifelong Yankees fan and UConn Men’s and Women’s Basketball supporter, he could always be found cheering, whether from the stands or his favorite chair at home.

The youngest of 24 cousins, Howard cherished his extended family. He was the glue that brought people together, always finding opportunities to organize family gatherings, share stories and enjoy life’s simple pleasures.

When he wasn’t in Naugatuck, Howard could be found in Watch Hill, RI, a place that held a special spot in his heart, making countless memories with family and friends. Whether it was relaxing by the ocean, enjoying lobster dinners or crabbing with his grandchildren, he embraced every moment with warmth, humor and love.

Howard’s kindness, quick wit and generous spirit left an imprint on everyone he met. His legacy of love, service and unwavering devotion to family, faith and community will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered with love.

Howard’s family would like to sincerely thank the entire staff at the VITAS Inpatient Hospice Care Unit for the excellent care and support that they gave to Howard and his family.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Saturday, February 15, 2025 at 10:00am at St. Francis of Assisi Church, 318 Church Street, Naugatuck. Everyone attending Mass is kindly asked to please meet directly at church. Burial will be private. Calling hours will be Friday, February 14, 2025 from 5:00 to 7:00pm at the Buckmiller Thurston Mengacci Funeral Home, 82 Fairview Avenue, Naugatuck. Members of the Naugatuck Veterans Council will assemble at the funeral home, Friday evening at 6:50pm. In lieu of flowers and to honor Howard’s memory, donations are requested to St. Francis of Assisi Church, 318 Church Street, Naugatuck, CT 06770.