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Obituary For Tommy Thornton Jr.
Tommy Thornton Jr.
Date of Birth: 05-20-1940
Date of Death: 02-23-2025
Place of Residence: Lithonia, Georgia
Age: 84
Obituary of Tommy Thornton Jr.
Tommy Thornton Jr., born on May 20, 1940, in St. Louis, Missouri, passed away peacefully on February 23, 2025, in Lithonia, Georgia, surrounded by his loving family, after a long and courageous battle with cancer.
Tommy was the beloved son of Margaret Griffin and Tommy Thornton Sr., who preceded him in death. He was also preceded in death by his sisters, Joanne Moton and Betty Tyner, and his brother, Johnny Thornton.
He is survived by his devoted wife of 61 years, Dorothy Thornton, who stood by his side through life’s joys and challenges. Tommy was a loving father to his two sons, Tommy Travis Thornton (Janet) and Iian Todd Thornton (Monica), both of whom he was immensely proud of. He also leaves behind his cherished sisters, Emma “Blondie” (Selus) Brown and Gloria (Raymond) Webb, who shared a lifetime of love and memories with him.
A proud and loving grandfather, Tommy’s legacy continues through his grandchildren: Jordan Miles Thornton, Sierra Monet Thornton, and Christian Larks. He treasured his time with them, offering guidance, wisdom, and endless love.
Tommy was baptized at an early age at King Solomon Baptist Church in Fort Smith, Arkansas, where his faith and spiritual foundation began. Throughout his life, he remained devoted to his faith and later became a longtime member ofAllen Chapel AME Church in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he found strength, guidance, and a sense of community.
A standout student and leader, Tommy graduated from Lincoln High School in Fort Smith, Arkansas, in 1959, where he served as President of the Student Council. His leadership skills and dedication to his classmates were evident from a young age, setting the foundation for his future successes.
Tommy was a gifted athlete, excelling in intramural football and track in both high school and at the College of the Ozarks. His passion for sports and competition fueled his drive for excellence, discipline, and teamwork—values that he carried throughout his life.
Beyond his athletic pursuits, Tommy had a deep love for singing and was a member of the choir at the College of the Ozarks. Music brought him joy, and his powerful voice was a source of inspiration to those around him.
He began his higher education at the College of the Ozarks, where he was a pioneer in racial integration, breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity at a time
when it was most needed. He later transferred to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, where he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and became a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., embracing the fraternity’s values of leadership, service, and brotherhood. His passion for education and leadership led him to further his studies, and he obtained a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan.
After graduating from college, Tommy taught science for three years, inspiring and educating young minds. During this time, he also took on a critical leadership role, becoming the Director of the Anti-Poverty Program in Forest City, Arkansas, at the height of the civil rights struggle. His work in this program aimed to uplift and empower disadvantaged communities, advocating for equal opportunities and resources.
In 1968, Tommy and Dorothy moved from Arkansas to Albion, Michigan, where he began working for Corning Glass. Passionate about education and social change, he later accepted a position in the Albion School District as an Assistant Principal, where he worked to help address the growing integration crisis and create a more inclusive learning environment for students.
In 1971, Tommy transferred to Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he continued serving as an assistant principal in the Kalamazoo Public Schools. He remained in this role for several years, positively impacting the lives of countless students and educators, before transitioning into entrepreneurship, where he successfully built and nurtured multiple businesses.
Tommy was a visionary businessman who founded and operated Thornton Adult Foster Care Homes, Video Plus, which included two video rental locations and a professional video production studio, ABC Daycare, and Michigan Air Charter. He also engaged in several limited business partnerships, including Power Financial and TAN, expanding his reach into investment and financial services. Additionally, he was an investment partner in multiple ventures in the restaurant and apparel industries, demonstrating his keen eye for opportunities and innovation.
At the time of his passing, Tommy was the Founder and President of Falco Corporation, a group of adult mental health facilities, where he remained dedicated to supporting mental health care. His leadership helped shape the organization’s direction and impact, reflecting his lifelong commitment to serving others.
Beyond his professional achievements, Tommy had a deep love for the outdoors and adventure. He found joy in fishing, boating, singing, diving, and skiing— activities that brought him peace, excitement, and countless cherished memories
with family and friends. His passion for life was evident in everything he did, from the songs he sang to the waters he explored.
Tommy was also a proud member of the Jolly Fellows Social Club in Kalamazoo, Michigan, where he formed lifelong friendships and enjoyed social camaraderie.
In addition to his immediate family, Tommy is survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends who brought joy to his life and whose lives he deeply impacted.
Tommy was a man of integrity, wisdom, and kindness. He will be remembered not only for his unwavering dedication to his family but also for his strength and resilience throughout his life. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, laughter, and perseverance will live on in those who knew and loved him.
Funeral Service Details
A funeral service to honor Tommy’s life will be held on Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at First St. Paul AME Church, located at 2624 Klondike Road, Lithonia, Georgia 30058. The service will begin at 11:00 AM. Family and friends are invited to attend and celebrate Tommy’s remarkable life.
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Richard Olsen planted 5 trees in memory of Tommy Thornton Jr. . - March 06, 2025
Dawn Speese sent Ocean Breeze Spray for Tommy Thornton Jr. - February 28, 2025
Sending my deepest heartfelt condolences to your family and loved ones. When my kids were young and at a time when giving celebrity couples a name was popular, my kids named Tom and Dorothy "Tomothy" and to this day they will still sometimes refer to them as that. I remember how much he laughed when he heard that. Even right now, the memory makes me smile. I will miss you and am so thankful for the honor of having you as part of my life for so many years. You have been one of the best people I've had the privilege of knowing.
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
