Nila Kathleen Durr Thurston

Nila Kathleen Durr Thurston, age 73, of Shreveport, Louisiana, passed away peacefully on August 6, 2026, leaving this earth for her forever home in Heaven.

Born on August 12, 1952 in Natchitoches, Louisiana to Betty Jean Anderson and Chester “Gerald” Durr, Nila lived a life marked by kindness, hard work, unwavering faith in those she loved, and a servant’s heart. She found joy not in recognition, but in caring for others and quietly making a difference in their lives.

In her younger days, Nila was a talented pianist at her church. Music and crafting were two of her many gifts. She would often play the piano while her two sons and have them sing “Hallelujah,” creating cherished memories, laughter, and worship that her family will never forget.

Nila devoted many years to working at a law firm for Ron Weems, where she was respected for her dedication and professionalism. She formed special friendships with coworkers that extended beyond the workplace. She also poured her heart into helping her nephew and his wife, Brandon and Stephanie, with their business, not because she had to, but because she believed in them and wanted to see them succeed. Her encouragement, wisdom, and attention to detail were gifts she shared generously.

Family was the center of Nila’s life. She cherished every opportunity to spend time with her loved ones—her sons and their families, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and the many children in her extended family who brought her endless happiness. She shared a special bond with her mother and her brother, relationships that remained deeply important throughout her life. Her “Arrow Sisters,” as she called them, friends from high school, formed a bond of friendship that will last forever. She also dearly loved her faithful dog, Missy, who was a constant companion.

Those who knew Nila will remember her for her generous spirit and genuine love. She was the person family members could count on for encouragement. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched through simple acts of kindness and steadfast love.

Nila was preceded in death by her father, Chester “Gerald” Durr.

She is survived by her mother, Betty Anderson Durr; two sons, David Keith Thurston and wife Kelley, and Michael Wayne Thurston and wife Michelle; her brother, Keith Durr and wife Judy; her grandchildren and great-grandchildren; her nieces and nephews; two stepdaughters, Melanie and Amy; and many other relatives and dear friends who will forever treasure her memory.

Honored to serve as pallbearers are David Thurston, Michael Thurston, Brandon Durr, Eric Durr, Preston Durr, and Quentin Durr.

Honorary pallbearers are Brandon Durr, Jr., Devin Durr, Wesley Durr, Cody Durr, James Michael Thurston, Landon Thurston, Wyatt Douthitt, Dow Douthitt, Michael Ned Thurston, and Jake Evans.              

A visitation will be held on Sunday, August 9, 2026 at Blanchard St. Denis beginning at 1:30 PM, followed by funeral services at 3:00 PM. Burial service will follow at Beulah Cemetery in Marthaville, Louisiana.

Though our hearts are broken, we rejoice in knowing that Nila’s faith has brought her into the arms of our Lord and that she is now at peace.