News Summary
James O. Thrasher, a respected resident of Starkville, MS, has passed away at the age of 94. He had a notable career in the furniture manufacturing industry and was a dedicated family man. Survived by his children and numerous grandchildren, his legacy is remembered by the community. The graveside service will be held at Whitehall Cemetery, officiated by Rev. Frank Keeton.
Starkville, MS – James O. Thrasher, a resident of Starkville, passed away on Monday, July 21, 2025, at the Oktibbeha County Hospital. He was 94 years old. Graveside services are scheduled for Friday, July 25, 2025, at 10:00 A.M. at Whitehall Cemetery, where he will be interred. Rev. Frank Keeton will officiate the service.
Thrasher had a distinguished and lengthy career in the furniture manufacturing industry, concluding with his retirement from Flex Steel in Starkville. He was a valued member of the community and an active participant in the Church of Nazarene in Starkville.
In addition to his professional achievements, he was a family man, survived by one son, Boyd Thrasher, married to Debra, and three daughters: Mary Alice Keeton, married to Frank, residing in Ackerman, MS; Kathy Wentworth, married to David, from Memphis, MO; and Barbara Reitz, married to Jerry, in Pryor, OK. He also leaves behind a sister, Virginia Parker, of Starkville, 11 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.
James was preceded in death by his wife, Shirley Robertson Thrasher, his parents, Amie Eaves and William Barton Thrasher, Sr., as well as a son, Marty Davis Thrasher. He was also mourned by the loss of two brothers, S. W. Thrasher and William Barton Thrasher, Jr., and two sisters, Irma Jean Manning and Patricia Josey.
The funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Porter’s Funeral Home, which will also facilitate the signing of the guestbook online. Pallbearers for the service include William Thrasher, Jr., Brian James Thrasher, Dewey Bostick, Conner Thrasher, Juan Gonzalez, and Sam Reitz. Additionally, Peter Miles and Austin Williams are recognized as honorary pallbearers.
Thrasher’s life, marked by dedication to his family and work, leaves behind a lasting impact on those who knew him and the community he served. His memory will be cherished by friends and family alike.
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Author: STAFF HERE STARKVILLE WRITER
The STARKVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREstarkville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Starkville, Oktibbeha County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cotton District Arts Festival, Bulldog Bash, and Mississippi State University homecoming celebrations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Starkville Area Chamber of Commerce and the Mississippi State University Extension Service, plus leading businesses in education and agriculture that power the local economy such as Mississippi State University and Starkville Manufacturing. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Mississippi's dynamic landscape.
