News Summary
Malcolm Gordon Thruston, a retired Lt Colonel and beloved husband, passed away at 95, leaving behind a legacy of service in the military and community. Known for his artistic skills in woodcarving and devotion to family and faith, Thruston’s life was marked by dedication and adventure. His contributions extend through his family and community service, with a graveside service planned to honor his memory.
Greenville, SC – Malcolm Gordon Thruston, a cherished husband and retired Lt Colonel, passed away on Saturday, May 10, 2025, at the age of 95. He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Ann Cunningham Thruston, along with his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Born on January 15, 1930, in Greenville, SC, Thruston was the son of the late Malcolm Gordon Thruston, Sr. and Kate Farr Thruston. He graduated from Greenville High School in 1947 and went on to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Textile Manufacturing from Clemson College in 1951. Following his education, he served with distinction in the US Army during the Korean War and later retired as a Lt Colonel from the Army Reserves after two decades of service.
Thruston had a successful career as a Senior Project Manager at Lockwood Greene Engineers based in Spartanburg, SC, where he contributed significantly to various projects in the textile industry. He was also an active member of his community, being involved with Shannon Forest Presbyterian Church, where he chaired the building committee, and later with St. Giles Presbyterian Church in Greenville, SC, serving as an elder.
Thruston was not only known for his military and professional achievements but also for his artistic talents. He was an avid woodcarver and a member of the Piedmont Woodcarvers Club, where he created impressive pieces that showcased his skill and passion for the craft. His spirit of adventure was evident in his love for hiking, a pastime he enjoyed weekly with friends for many years. Additionally, he was a devoted fan of Clemson football, regularly attending games and tailgating with family and friends.
Thruston is also survived by his brother, Terry Farr Thruston from Spartanburg, SC, and his sister, Virginia Thruston Diseker (Bob) from Winston-Salem, NC. His legacy continues through his daughter, Kathy Chapman (Randy), and his grandchildren, Brad Chapman (Laura) and Harrison Chapman (Mary Macrae). He was also the proud great-grandfather of Mary Grace, Molly, Olivia, and Grayson, all residing in Pawleys Island, SC.
He was predeceased by his parents, his son, Richard Gordon Thruston, and his first wife, Elizabeth Early Thruston. In honor of his life and contributions, a graveside service will be held on Monday, May 19, 2025, at 1:00 PM at Woodlawn Memorial Park in Greenville, SC. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Parkinson’s Foundation in honor of his daughter, Kathy Chapman, or to a charity of one’s choice.
Malcolm Gordon Thruston leaves behind a rich legacy of love, dedication, and community service, and he will be remembered by all who knew him.
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- Greenville Online: Malcolm Gordon Thruston Obituary
- Wikipedia: Death
- Greenville Online: Richard Gordon Thruston Obituary
- Google Search: Malcolm Gordon Thruston
- Dignity Memorial: Richard Thruston
- Google Scholar: Korean War
- Greenville Online: Obituaries Index
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Community Service
- Greenville Online: Local News
- Google News: Greenville SC
Author: STAFF HERE GREENVILLE
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