David Ray Thornburg Sr.

David Ray Thornburg Sr., age 84, of Winterset, passed away on Sunday, November 9, 2025, at Care Initiatives in Osceola.

David was born on July 25, 1941, in Des Moines, Iowa, the son of Raymond Everett and Betty Helen (Schirner) Thornburg. He was raised in the Des Moines area and began a lifelong career in the lumber industry after completing school. Over the course of more than 40 years, he worked at Paxton Lumberyard, Circle B Lumberyard, and later Wheeler Lumberyard before his retirement.

David proudly served his country in the United States Army for two years. On August 23, 1964, he was united in marriage to the love of his life, Mary Benge, in Winterset, Iowa. Together they built a loving family and shared many wonderful memories.

Known for his sharp wit and playful sense of humor, David was a true prankster who could fill any room with laughter. He enjoyed playing cribbage, traveling with his family, camping, and cooking. A devoted Green Bay Packers fan, he especially loved watching “Monday Night Football” with a bowl of his famous stovetop popcorn.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife, Mary Thornburg; children, Randy (Mindy) Thornburg, Audie Thornburg, and Rayann (Gordy) Hughes; grandchildren, David III, Randy Jr., Crystal, Susan, Ashley, Rebecca, Josie, Lisa, Emma, and Abby; and great-grandchildren, Alexis, Josh, Haley, Ariana, Evealynn, Matthias, Rosealynn, Gwendolynn, and Peyton. He is also survived by his sisters, Norma Cooper, Judy Groetken, Jennie Wilson, and Ruth (Tom) Tyer, and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his son, David Jr.; and his sister, Kathy Faux.

David will be remembered for his humor, kindness, and deep love for his family. His legacy of laughter and warmth will live on in all who knew him.

Visitation will be held from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – Winterset Chapel. Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, November 14, 2025, at Caldwell Parrish Funeral Home – Winterset Chapel. Burial will follow at Winterset Cemetery. A luncheon will follow the burial at the VFW building in Winterset.

Memorials are suggested to the family for designation at a future date.