Thurman Moran Vassey Sr., 78, died Saturday, March 7, 2015, at Kings Mountain Hospice House. A native of Cleveland County, he was the son of the late Haskell and Mildred Canipe Vassey. Thurman served in the Airforce, owned Thurman Vassey Trucking Inc., and was a former member of F.O.P and TW Lovelace Memorial Church. Thurman enjoyed his weekly breakfast, with friends, at The Clock. As a pilot, and his love for aviation, Thurman could be found most weekends at the Shelby Airport, working in the terminal and visiting with friends, or even flying his Piper Arrow. He was active in organizing the annual fly-in at the airport, and was a Certified Ham Operator.

PRECEDED: In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by brothers, Richard and Larry Vassey; grandson, Matthew Robert Thomas; half-brother, Hoyt Vassey; and half-sister, Frances Wright.

SURVIVED: He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Dorothy Lovelace Vassey, of the home; son, Thurman "Moran" Vassey Jr., and wife Elma; daughter, Joanne Thomas, all of Shelby; brother, Yates Vassey of Maiden; grandchildren, Jason Thomas of Hickory, Amanda Thomas, Angel and Franklin Vassey, all of Shelby; and his canine companions, Rusty, Buster, and Sitka.

FUNERAL SERVICES: Wednesday, 2p.m., at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home Chapel

VISITATION: The family will receive friends Tuesday, 6-7:30pm, at Clay-Barnette Funeral Home

BURIAL: Sharon U.M.C. with military honor's

CLERGY: Revs. Scott Caldwell and Jerry Allen

MEMORIALS: Compass Aviation Inc., PO Box 307 Shelby, NC 28151

FUNERAL HOME: Clay-Barnette Funeral Home of Shelby