A family-owned funeral home is part of the community in which it serves, having a personal connection with neighbors. It is often staffed by the owners, as well as members of the surrounding community. Thurman Funeral Home, celebrating 100 years of service to Ray County and currently owned by Bart and Tonya Willim, is one such place. The business was established in 1922 by Ezekiel and Maude Thurman. The Thurman family ran the funeral home for three generations. Ezekiel ran it, then his son Levan took over in 1947, followed by Levan’s son Bruce in 1975. In 2001, Michael Graff purchased the business and hired the Willims in 2007. Ten years later, the Willims purchased the business and continue to run it today. On Oct. 14, the Willims celebrated 100 Thurman’s years of service to the community. Community members, business owners, city council members, friends and families came to support the Willims and their achievements with the business. “Thank you…