He was born April 16, 1941 in Jefferson City, TN to Lester and Rema (McGaha) Thornton. He married Judy Glossick on February 24, 1962 in Chicago. They were married for over 60 years. She survives along with two sons: Kevin (Ratnara) Thornton of Naperville, IL, Patrick (Jill) Thornton of Mapleton, five grandchildren: Rachel of Frederick, CO, Caitlin of Los Angeles, CA, Kyleigh of Greenville, SC, Thomas of Aurora, CO, Ryan of Oxford, MS, one sister, Margaret (John) Belda and one brother, Troy (Pat) Thornton both of Newport, TN.
He is preceded in death by his parents, and one brother, James Thornton.
Tom was a United States Army veteran. Following his time in the military Tom worked in HVAC, working for Meyer’s Heating and Cooling for 40 years. He was a member of the Sheet Metal Workers Union Local One out of Peoria.
Tom loved fishing in Minnesota with family and friends. Tom was always willing to help anyone out with any of their projects. He was very proud of his sons and his grandchildren and their accomplishments.
Cremation rites have been accorded. A celebration of Tom’s life will be Thursday, Dec. 29, 2022 at 5 p.m. at the Davison-Fulton Bartonville Chapel. Visitation will be one hour prior to the services. Burial will be in Parkview Cemetery at a later date.
Memorials may be made to the Illinois Cancer Center on Rt. 91 or TAPS.
You may view Tom’s obituary online at www.davison-fultonbartonvillechapel.com
