Charles Jackson (Jackie) Thurston, age 64, of 2301 Dressler Drive, Covington, Virginia, died Monday, April 15, 2013 at his residence.

He was born February 9, 1949 in Alleghany County, Virginia, to the late Clyde William and Allene Humphrey Thurston.

He was a retired Chief of Police for the city of Covington, with 34 years of police experience. He was also retired from the Virginia National Guard and the United States Marine Corps, where he served from 1969 unto 1971.

He was a member of the Millboro Masonic Lodge and was an avid hunter, fisherman, gardener and golfer.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by a brother, Clyde "Dubbie" Thurston, Jr. and a sister, Susan Thurston Clark.

He is survived by his wife, Sherry Thurston of Covington; a daughter, Ashli L. Thurston of Covington; two sons, Sean G. Richmond and wife, Krista of Covington, and Tracey Richmond and wife, Debbi of Bridgewater; two sisters, Nancy Thurston Rowan and husband, Les of Valley Ridge, and Esther M. Thurston of Clifton Forge; three brothers, William "Bill" Thurston and wife, Reba of Martinsville, David W. Thurston and wife, Pam of Eagle Rock and Daniel "Danny" Thurston and wife, Deborah of Clifton Forge; special brother, Arnold "Bubby" Meadows of Covington; eight grandchildren, Logan E. Richmond, Paige M. Richmond, Ashton G. Richmond, Morgan "Katie" Richmond-Selman, Lauryn "Nikki" Richmond, Ashley D. Little, Courtney L. Little and Isabella G. Richmond; two great grandchildren, Tyler Richmond and Joey Selman; a number of nieces and nephews; and special friends, Monty Crawford, Delbert Smith and Allie White.

In keeping with his wishes, his body has been cremated. A memorial service will be held on Thursday evening at 7:00 p.m. in Faith Baptist Church, Covington with Reverend Billy Price and Reverend J. B. Broughman officiating. Military honors will be conducted at the service by members of the Virginia Army National Guard Honor Guard along with members of the Covington Police Department. The family will visit with friends on Thursday evening from 4:00 p.m. until time of 6:00 p.m. at the church prior to the service.

Nicely Funeral Home, Clifton Forge is in charge of arrangements. The family suggests memorial tributes take the form of contributions to Mountain Regional Hospice Volunteers, PO Box 637, Clifton Forge, VA 24422 or to the American Cancer Society, Alleghany Highlands Division, C/O Karen Buzzard, 807 McCormick Boulevard, Clifton Forge, VA 24422.