Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA

Obituary For Willie Edward Thorne

Willie E. Thorne, 79, of Richmond, went to be with God on November 14, 2023 surrounded by his loving children in the hospital.

Willie was born on May 5, 1944 in Palmer Springs, Virginia to the late Lizzie Anna (Thorne) Terry. He was educated in the Palmer Springs, Virginia school system. With little education he went further in life than expected. Willie was employed by the Department of Corrections and served many positions including his last position as Chief of Security. Major Thorne retired after 36 years with the DOC. He was also a founding member of the NABCJ (National Association of Blacks in Criminal Justice) since 1977.

He enjoyed spending time with his family and friends entertaining, cooking, fishing, listening to music and telling stories of his many adventures. He will be remembered for being loving, dedicated, giving, funny sense of humor and his firm structured nature towards his family and friends. We have so many laughs and memories that we shared with him.

He was preceded in death by his mother, Lizzie Anna Thorne Terry; brothers, Willie (Steeny) Thorne and James Thorne; sisters, Lizzie Mae Thorne, Nancy Thorne, Geraldine Burchette and Shirley Abdullah.

Survivors include his children, Melissa Thorne of Atlanta, Georgia, Demetrice Thorne (care giver) of Richmond, Virginia, Chris Thorne (Lana) of Goochland, Virginia and Brittany Thorne Moats (Steven) of Staunton, Virginia; grandson, D’onte Thorne; granddaughter, Ashley Thorne; six great grandchildren, Travis Thorne, Vaniyah Thorne, Keimon Dodson, Kahmi Dodson, Jy’mir Gregory and Zuri Thorne; four sisters, Gloria Taylor of Henrico, Virginia, Rosa Suite of Norlina, NC, Jeanette Thorne of Norlina,NC and Laverne Jordan of Oxford,NC; brother, Wilson Thorne Jr. of Wisconsin; many beloved nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, to include close friend and neighbor, Mr. Reed and former co-worker and close friend, Rufus Flemming.

Remains rest at Scott's Funeral Home, 115 E. Brookland Park Blvd., where viewing will be held from 10 a.m. unit. 7 p.m. Monday, November 27, 2023. Funeral services will be held 11 a.m. Tuesday, November 28 at Scott's Chapel, 116 E. Brookland Park Blvd. Interment Oakwood Cemetery. Live streaming at www.scottsfuneralhome.com.

Guest Book

This is a man I knew of before I knew him. He was a unique and special man who we all in Corrections depended on and especially his work family at Southampton. His guidance and many stories will endure. He has a star on our wall of people we were fortunate to know. RIP Willie!

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It was a pleasure to work with Major Thorne at Southampton Correctional Center. I am sending my deepest condolences to the Thorne family.

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I worked with Major Willie Thorne at Southampton Correctional Center. My fondest memory was his laugh. He always gave me professional advice and he was one of the best in Corrections. I am sending my condolences to the family and praying for your comfort during this time.

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May God comfort, strengthen, & keep Willie's family in perfect peace. We'll remember his smile, kindness & caring demeanor. We met Willie in 1985 when he worked in Mecklenburg County, VA. He was a positive role model for our community.

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Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.

- Scotts Funeral Home | Richmond, VA