Herrin- John Thornton, Jr., age 89, of Herrin, passed away at 6:10am on Saturday, September 28, 2013 at the Veteran’s AffairsMedicalCenter in Marion.
John was born in Herrin on February 6, 1924, the son of John and Pearl (Vaughn) Thornton. He married Lucille Odum in Arkansas on April 18, 1951. She preceded him in death on June 19, 2004.
Mr. Thornton was the owner of Thornton’s Market in Herrin for fifty-two years. He was a United States Army Air Corp Veteran having served during World War II. John was a life member of the Herrin VFW.
Survivors include his son- Johnie and Martha Thornton of Herrin
Daughter- Brenda Stricklin of Herrin
Five grandchildren- Brian and Amy Thornton of Columbus, Ohio
Christopher and Karie Thornton of Paducah, KY
Angela and John Holton of Herrin
Debra Dingrando of West Frankfort
John and Natalie Murry of Energy
Seven Great Grandchildren
Three Great Great Grandchildren
Nephew- Robert and Charlene Thornton of Marion
Close Friend- Lomelda Dwyer of Herrin
He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife, and two brothers- Grover Laverne and Vernell Thornton.
Funeral services will be held at 11am on Wednesday, October 2, 2013 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin with Rev. John Howatt officiating. Entombment will follow at HerrinCityCemetery with military honors provided by Herrin Military Ceremonial Team comprised of Freeman Spur American Legion, Herrin American Legion, and Herrin VFW Post. Assistance will be provided by the National Guard Flag Honor Detail. Visitation will be held from 5-8pm on Tuesday, October 1, 2013 at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home in Herrin.
For those who prefer, memorial donations may be made to the Veteran’s Affairs Medical Center or a charity of the donor’s choice. Envelopes will be available and accepted at Johnson-Hughes Funeral Home; 201 S 13th Street; Herrin, IL62948.
For more information, or to sign the memorial guest register, please visit www.hughesfuneralhomes.com