Roger Norman Thornton, 80 years old, Ontario, Ohio, passed away on July 11, 2024 at his residence. He was born in Jenkinjones, West Virginia, on February 7, 1944 to the late Thelma (Vines) and Hobart Thornton.
He attended Pochahontas High School in Virginia and began working in the mines of Virginia. Roger later moved to Mansfield where he worked in construction for over 50 years in highway and transit projects with Purdy Construction and retired from Kokosing Construction. He was a proud member of the Labors Union 1216 and owned a customized 95 Dodge truck that he took to many auto shows where he won many awards that filled his garage.
Roger was always willing to offer a helping hand to neighbors and friends and had a generous giving heart. He attended Promised Land Fellowship Church on Park Avenue. He especially loved his grandchildren and great grandchildren as they were his pride and joy.
He is survived by his wife of sixty years, Brenda (Jeffery) Thornton; his children, Barry Thornton and Melissa (Brad) Wilson; grandchildren, Samantha (Eric) Kline, Autumn (Travis) Snavely and Kristopher Wilson; great grandchildren, Eli Snavely and Lucy Kline; special friend, Rick Wiseman; childhood friend, Eddie Pauley; and many beloved family and friends.
Roger was preceded in death by his parents; and his sister, Shirley (Greever) Compton.
The family will receive friends on Thursday, July 18, 2024 from 9:00 – 11:00 AM at Wappner Funeral Directors – Ontario, 100 S. Lexington Springmill Rd. The funeral service will follow at 11:00 AM, officiated by Pastor Rick Wiseman and Pastor Hank Webb. He will be laid to rest in Mansfield Memorial Park. Memorial contributions may be made in care of the family.
