Ernest Edward Thurston

November 16, 2013

Ernie Thurston Ernest “Ernie” Edward  Thurston of Port Orange, FL was born February 5, 1952 in Watkins Glen, NY to the late Alton Keith Thurston and Celestia Thurston, nee Green. He suddenly passed November 14, 2013 in Port Orange, FL at the age of 61. Ernie recently retired from the International Speedway Corporation (ISC).  Ernie served honorably in the US Air Force having attained the rank of Airman First Class.  Ernie also worked for the Schuyler County NY Sheriffs Department, and was a former Schuyler County Fire Coordinator in NY.  He was a member of the Watkins Glen NY Fire Dept., Squires Drum and Bugle Corps, past Schuyler County Legislator and a member of the Little Weasels and the Hoselines. Ernie is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Brenda Thurston, sons; Derek Thurston, and Mitchell Thurston.  Siblings; Sheryl Thurston (Linwood).  Wendy Scuteri  (Victor), Deborah McDonald, Alan Thurston (Karen), Ken Thurston (Renee).  Additionally, he leaves behind his mother and father in law, Owen and Julia Mathews, brothers in law; Herb Matthews, Ron Matthews, Alan Matthews (Amy), Greg Matthews (Diana), and Doug Matthews, many loved nieces, nephews, other relatives and many friends. In lieu of flowers the family has requested donations to Watkins Glen Fire Department, 201 N. Perry St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891, or to the Wounded Warrior Project, PO Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675, or www.woundedwarriorproject.org A local celebrations of Ernie’s life will be held 5:00 pm until 8:00 pm, Monday, November 18, 2013 at the Bill France Room, Daytona USA. Additionally, a final celebration of life will be held at Ernie’s hometown at 12:00 pm, Saturday, November 23, 2013 at the Watkins Glen Fire Department, 201 Perry St., Watkins Glen, NY 14891. All arrangements are under the care of Heritage Funeral & Cremation Service, Port Orange, FL.