Paul Thistlethwaite

Paul Vern Thistlethwaite, 88, passed away March 4, 2024, at Decatur Memorial Hospital. He was born August 21, 1935, to Paul and Bertha Thistlethwaite.

Vern graduated from Decatur High School in 1953. He earned a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree, both from the University of Illinois.

He married Judy Thornton in 1957. They had two children Polly and Paul. Together they enjoyed camping, fishing, and the out-of-doors. In their 66 years together Judy and Vern enjoyed many kinds of travel with friends and family.

Vern taught science courses 1957-1959 at Niantic High School. He taught the life sciences 1959-1992 at Decatur High School. He taught occasional courses at Richland Community College and Millikin University, and he worked as a summertime naturalist in the Great Smoky Mountain National Park during the mid-1960s.

Vern was elected to leadership in the Decatur Education Association. He served as president during the 1971 teacher strike and contract negotiation. Upon retirement from teaching, Vern bought and sold antiques, keeping shops in Springfield and Decatur. He volunteered for the Friends of the Decatur Public Library, and he was an active member of Decatur’s Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. Vern was a life-long student and advocate for social justice, and a capable gardener.

Vern is survived by his wife, Judy; daughter Polly (Elizabeth), Brooklyn, NY; son Paul (Patty), grandchildren Kyle (Jessica) and Drew, all of Colorado Springs, CO.

Memorial donations may go to Friends of the Decatur Public Library or an organization of the donor’s choice. Private services will be held at a later date. Tanzyus Logan Funeral Service and Care is assisting the family with arrangements.