Hurla Gene "Dink" Thornburg

Hurla Gene “Dink” Thornburg, a cherished spirit of Nixa, departed from this world on October 4, 2025, at the age of 89. Born on May 3, 1936, in the quaint town of Almartha, Missouri, he was a beloved son of Hurla Ray and Bonnie Jean (Taylor) Thornburg. 

On November 20, 1955, Dink's heart found its match when he married his devoted companion, Carol Sprague. Their union, spanning nearly seven decades, became a testament to love, commitment, and joyous partnership. 

Dink proudly served his country in the U.S. Navy, embodying the spirit of service and dedication. Following his honorable discharge, he took on the role of Christian County Collector, diligently serving for eight years. An entrepreneur at heart, he ventured into various businesses, leaving indelible marks in the community with establishments like a hotel in Branson, an insurance company, the Ozarks Music Hall of Fame, and Indian Point Marina. His laughter was infectious; Dink thrived as a comedian and made unforgettable memories with road trips alongside the Baldknobbers and the Plummer Family Country Music Show. He was the comedic relief at all family get togethers, pulling pranks, telling questionable jokes and even coming in costume. 

Dink leaves behind a tapestry of love woven with his wife, Carol Thornburg of Nixa; their daughters, Julie Little and her husband Marty of Spokane, and Lisa Flood and her husband Joey of Nixa; and their grandchildren, Tifini Roberts and her husband Josh, Landon Pollard and his wife Shelly, Connor Mawhiney, Dustin Flood, and Misty Glenn and her husband Jason, all of whom brought him immense joy. His legacy further lives on through his great-grandchildren: Greyson and Kenzie Roberts, Holland Roberts and fiancé Kade Thixton, Finley and Fallon Pollard, Savannah and Jace Flood, Ainsley and Anyston Glenn, and Vincent Mawhiney, who each gifted him with moments of pure delight. He is also survived by his sister, Ginger Jones and her husband Gary of Owasso, Oklahoma; along with treasured nieces, Lacey Miller, the late Eric Miller, and Kara Waugh and her husband Cooper, all of Owasso; and great-nieces and nephews Baeli, Aspyn and Daxton Miller, who will forever hold memories of their beloved uncle close to their hearts. 

In honor of his remarkable life, a memorial service will take place at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday, October 16, 2025, at Adams Funeral Home in Nixa, officiated by Chaplain Steve Martin. Following the service, a committal ceremony with military honors will pay tribute to his service, held at 3:00 p.m. at Missouri Veterans Cemetery, under the direction of Adams Funeral Home, Nixa. 

As we gather to celebrate Dink's life, let us remember the laughter he shared, the love he spread, and the lasting impact he made on everyone fortunate enough to know him. May his memory forever shine brightly in our hearts.