Waco was born in Houston, Texas on February 1, 1935 to Waco H. Thornton Sr. and Grace Carol Homan. He was preceded in death by his parents and in-laws, loving wife of 37 years, Irene Doris Sadowski Thornton, youngest brother, Richard Thornton, nephew Patrick Thornton and a son-in-law, Geoff High.
Waco was the eldest of five boys raised on the east side of Houston. His childhood consisted mostly of playing baseball, telling stories and providing his siblings with guidance. He enjoyed fishing and hunting which ultimately became a lifelong passion. Shortly after high school, Waco enlisted in the United States Navy where he began traveling the world aboard the U.S.S. Wasp, CVS-18 positioned as part of the catapult crew.
The story he most loved to tell was after arriving in Boston Harbor, his last port of call. He recalled walking along the streets with his Navy buddies, having heard a voice from inside a honkytonk singing like no other. It is where he met Irene. She soon became his forever love and bride on his next birthday, February 1.
After having five brothers growing up, Waco was blessed with having 6 women to look after him. Luckily, he was blessed with many grandsons and granddaughters as well. Waco made a career through Commercial Painting where his business led him to Florida and then back to Houston. After retiring, he invested time making memories with his closest friends, family and the many grand and great-grandchildren. Whether he was on a boat fishing, in the woods hunting, at the ballpark cheering or helping clean up after an event, his active lifestyle kept his heart joyful.
Waco became an active member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He was Chaplain of his Chapter #78 Montgomery County. He served with great respect and honor beside his fellow servicemen and women.
Waco leaves behind five daughters, Chanel Caruso (Brian Humplik), Crystal Thornton, Cynthia Hays and husband Donald, Cheryl Thornton (Kevin Box), and Diane High. He was blessed with 9 grandchildren and 14 great-grandchildren, and numerous family and friends he held close.
He had a strong belief in his Almighty God, which held his family close throughout his life.
In Lieu of flowers the family kindly ask donations be made in Waco's name to the Leukemia Foundation.
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