of Proctor, AR

November 18, 1935 - August 8, 2022

Charles Edward Thornton, 86 of Lehi, left for his heavenly home on August 8, 2022. He was born at his parent's home in Union County, Mississippi on November 18, 1935 to James Bon and Bessie Thornton. He had a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Tennessee.

He met his wife, Joy Jean, when they worked together at Futorian Furniture Store in Mississippi. They fell in love and got married in 1957 at the preacher's house. He was an educator at the Memphis Area Vocational and Technical School, where he taught upholstery for many years until retirement. He was a long-time member and deacon of Grace Baptist Church (formerly Ingram Boulevard Baptist Church). He loved the Lord and always invited people to church, even in his last days. He was an avid hunter, spending many weekends deer hunting with his friend Mike Walker. He enjoyed gardening and upholstering furniture in his workshop. He was loved by his family and adored by his grandchildren and great grandchildren. He could fix just about anything, according to his eldest granddaughter. He enjoyed spending time with family and playing games (particularly winning at marbles).

He was preceded in death by his parents, James Bon and Bessie Thornton; brother, Raymond (Hazel) Thornton; brother, Cecil (CoyV) Thornton; grandson, James Thornton and nephews, Gerald and Douglas Thornton.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Joy Jean Thornton; his children, Jeff Thornton of Blue Springs, Mississippi, Mark Thornton of West Memphis, Sherry (Greg) George of Marion and Jerome Thornton of West Memphis. He is survived by six grandchildren, nine great grandchildren and a host of family and friends.

Funeral services will be 11 AM Monday, August 15, 2022 at Roller Citizens Funeral Home, 201 N. Pine Street, West Memphis, AR, with burial following at Crittenden Memorial Park in Marion.

Visitation will precede the service from 10-11 AM at the funeral home.

Obituary Provided By:
Roller-Citizens Funeral Home
201 North Pine Street
West Memphis, AR  72303
www.rollerfuneralhomes.com