Lodes Wayland Thornton

Lodes Wayland Thornton, born November 26, 1926, in La Mesa, Texas passed away August 23, 2019 in Humble, Texas at Ninety-Two. He left quietly and comfortably in the care of Kelley Ann Sanford. She was an angel to him. Our family extends our heartfelt thanks to her for the exceptional care she provided Dad. Kelley, you’re awesome. Many blessings to you.

Wayland had traditional education growing up in Waco, Texas. He grew up in the depression, era when times were very tough for a child that came from a family doing well, a threat that disturbed him all his life.

He attended the University of Houston where he achieved a degree in Communication. While he was in college he worked at Foley’s in downtown Houston.

Then he was drafted into the Army. He served in Patton’s Army from June 1945 to November 1946. Assigned to the 42nd mechanized cavalry Troop B, he was very proud to have been under Patton’s command.

Wayland enjoyed a passion for drawing, this interest led him to painting and calligraphy. He was quite accomplished at both. He challenged himself to paint with water colors. This may sound like child’s play, but painting with water colors is very difficult because they tend to run together. He practiced art for months and became very proficient with it.

In his professional life he was a railroad engineer for the Houston Belt and Terminal. When he began his work there he operated a steam engine, a distinction he was very proud of. He stayed there for thirty six years. When he left for work he would tell us he’s going to make some Popsicle money.

He was a devoted member of Houston First Baptist Church and an avid bowler and golfer.

He is preceded in death by his mother Jewel (Momo) and father Lodes (Pop-pop) Thornton, the best grandparents in the world.

His is survived by son, Joel Wayland and wife Madeline; their children Eli and wife, Emma, Christopher and wife, Niki, Angela, and Sara; great grandchildren Zoe, Grace, Isabella, Pearl, and Cora; his daughter, Bonnye Kathleen Green and husband Earl; children, Jason and Brandi; and great grandchildren Ian, Steven, Ciara, Colin, and Michael (Deuce).