David Andrew Thurston, “Captain 30,” age 54, of Hayes, died on Saturday, September 28, 2024, surrounded by loved ones. David was born on October 5, 1969 to Richard Eugene and Deborah Thomas Thurston. David worked for ACI Fire and Safety and was a volunteer for Abingdon Fire and Rescue for 15+ years, where he was lovingly called “the squirrel” as he was on every call. He was a mentor to many in the fire industry. He was selfless and a very hard worker, making him the ideal gentleman and firefighter.

He was preceded in death by his father and sister, Tammy Thurston. David is survived by his mother, Deborah Thomas Thurston; son, Nathan Thurston (Heather), and daughter, Tina Thurston, daughter, Summer Morrison; nine grandchildren: Brooklyn Thurston, Lilli Thurston, Haven Thurston, Bella Thurston, Layla Penland, Zoey Penland, Braxten Penland, Mayson Penland and Oliver Morrison. He is also survived by his sister, Cindy McDade.

“Our lives go on without you, but nothing is the same; we have to hide our heartache when someone speaks your name. Sad are the hearts that love you; silent are the tears that fall. Living without you is the hardest of all. You did so many things for us; your heart was kind and true, and when we needed someone, we could always count on you. The special years will not return when we were all together, but with all the love in our hearts, you will always be with us forever.”
“Firefighters never die; they just burn forever in the hearts of the people whose lives they saved.”

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Station 3, 2676 Hayes Road, Hayes, Va. 23072 on Saturday, October 12, 2024, at 2 p.m.

Services are under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home & Crematory.