NEW COLUMBIA -- Forrest Allen "Bud" Thursby, 85, of Old Route 15, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ on Friday, Nov. 6, 2009, at his home, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born Oct. 29, 1924, in New Columbia, a son of Forrest and Mae (Fisher) Thursby. He was married on Oct. 25, 1946, to the former Mabel Moyer, who survives. They celebrated their 63rd wedding anniversary on Oct. 25.

He attended schools in New Columbia and Milton.

Bud was a self-employed contractor specializing in painting and hanging wallpaper.

Bud was a very loving and generous husband, father and grandfather.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by three daughters and one son-in-law, Kathy A. Rothermel, of New Columbia, Jill L. Everitt, of Selinsgrove, and Jackie L. and Terry Boas, of Drumore; seven grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; two great-great-grandchildren; and one brother, Rev. Larry Stewart of Myersdale.

He was preceded in death by one son, Scott A. Thursby in 1974, one daughter, Fay E. Lahr in 1990; and two sisters, Fay A. Libby and Mary Marano.

Friends and family are invited to call from 6 to 8 p.m. today at the Shaw Funeral Home, 400 N. Front St., Milton, and from 10 to 11 a.m. Tuesday at the Revival Tabernacle, Susquehanna Trail, Watsontown, with the funeral following at 11, with the Rev. James R. Bond, and Bud's brother, the Rev. Larry Stewart, officiating.

Burial will be in Highland Cemetery, New Columbia.

Memorials in Bud's memory may be made to the Evangelical Home Health Hospice, 1 Hospital Drive, Lewisburg, PA 17837.