Thurman D. Felker, 86, passed away on Tuesday, May 3, 2016. Thurman was born on June 20, 1929 at Fort Eustis and was a lifelong resident of Hampton. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather (Papa), and great-grandfather and friend to many. Following high school, he served a tour of duty in the United States Air Force. Afterwards he worked for years as a general contractor and for a time was the assistant golf pro at the Woodlands Golf Course. Thurman wasn't just an accomplished golfer; he also was a talented gardener and loved to go fishing. For decades he played fast-pitch softball for the St. Mary's Star of the Sea team, in fact he played so long that he actually played with the children of his earlier teammates. If you knew Thurman, you would know that one of the things he was most proud of was being half Pamunkey Indian.

He is survived by his loving wife of over 60 years, Virginia (Ginny), his daughter, Barbara F. Copley (Rodney), and his son, Thurman D. Felker, Jr. (Amy). Also left to cherish his memory are six grandchildren, Cliff Copley (Allison), Laura Hatcher (James), Drew Copley (Lauren), Candice Carpenter (Steven), Sydney Felker, Thurman D. Felker III, five great-grandchildren, a sister, Ruby Anderson (Ray), and brother, Mike Felker, as well as his dog, Shorty, who he rescued years ago from the golf course.

Thurman grew up near the Hampton Golf Course (now Woodlands). He was an avid golfer and lifetime member of the country club. He cherished the many friendships from his time playing golf. He once caddied for golf pro Sam Snead. In his lifetime, he also achieved hitting seven holes-in-one.

A memorial service will be conducted Monday, May 9, 2016 at 12:00 noon at St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church, 807 W. Mercury Blvd. Hampton, with longtime golfing friend, Pastor Eddie Heath officiating.

In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made in his memory to the local SPCA or St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran Church.

Arrangements are by R. Hayden Smith Funeral Home.