GOSHEN — James Tyler “Jimmy T” Thurston Jr., 78, died at his Goshen home on Dec. 15, 2019.
He grew up in Waterbury, started calling square dances at age 8, performed as “little Jimmy T” then formed his first band, Jimmy T and the Cobras. He was in many bands, and placed 3rd in a national Battle of the Bands competition.
When not performing, he enjoyed deer hunting and fishing, watching football, boxing and professional bull riding. He was a longtime member of the American Legion.
He is survived by his children, Vicky “Mushy” Cleland and husband of Alburgh, Jamie Lee Thurston of Nashville, Deborah West and husband of Summerville, S.C.; four grandchildren; three great-grandchildren; sisters Virginia Atwood and husband of Essex, and Brenda Viens of North Fayston; and companion Diane Barker Bent of Goshen.
He was previously married to the former Sandra Wimble, Maggie Pearo and Dawn McKenzie.
He was predeceased by brothers Sidney Thurston and Wendall Thurston.
The Jimmy T Jamboree and life celebration will be held at the Hilton Burlington Lake Champlain Hotel in Burlington on Jan, 5, from 2–7 p.m. For those who wish, memorial gifts would be appreciated to gofundme.com/f/JimmyTThurstonMemorialMusicFund.