Denise R. Thurman's Obituary
Denise Thurman, 62, affectionately known as ‘Niecy’, started her earthly journey on November 10, 1963, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, born to Ocie Thurman and James Taylor. She entered eternal rest on Wednesday, November 19, 2025, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her home. Niecy went to the one that loved her the most leaving a void in the hearts of her family that will never be filled.
She was educated in the Chattanooga public school system. She graduated from Chattanooga Adult High School in 1981.
Niecy accepted Christ at an early age under the pastorage of Rev. Wilmer Russ at Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church. There, she sang in the junior choir. Later, under the pastorage of Rev. Calton Douglas, she sang in the choir, was a youth director, and was superintendent of Sunday school for a number of years. She later became an active member of 1st Baptist Church of Washington Hills until health issues. She was a member of the mass choir, WOW ministry, and YGIC youth ministry. She had a love for writing and presenting plays. She spent time teaching at Cadas Rehab of Chattanooga, Tennessee and the Rescue Mission. Niecy had a kind heart and a giving spirit, willing to help anyone.
She was preceded in death by her parents; brother Larry Taylor; and nephew Jermario Moore.
Denise will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who knew and loved her. Those left to cherish her precious memories, her loving daughters, Annissa Thurman and Twilia (Justin) Sims; grandchildren, DaRianna and London King, Jalayah, Justice, and Justin Sims Jr.; brothers, Bobby Fanning and Anthony (Pauline) Thurman, Sr.; sisters, Diane Domineck, Debbie Thurman, Belinda Thomas, Audrey Thurman, and Bobbie Moorer; nieces, LaTosha (Jason) Harvey, LaKesha Thurman and Takilya Thurman; nephews, Anthony, Jr. and Justin Thurman, Andre Henderson, Brandon (Calmesha) Thomas, Jason and Jonathan Nicholson, Cordarius and Yacoubian Taylor; and a host of other relatives and friends. Most remember Denise for her small stature and big personality. She will be sadly and deeply missed.
Denise will lie-in-state on Friday, November 28, 2025, from 12:30-5:00 p.m. at Taylor Funeral Home. Funeral service will be Saturday, November 29, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Taylor Funeral Home chapel with Pastor Ronnie Bullard as the Eulogist. Burial in Highland Memorial Gardens.
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