Lucille Allen Thorton, (more affectionately known as “Cille”) was born the oldest daughter to Will and Malinda Murff Allen on March 1, 1927, in Attala County, MS. This was a very special day because she and her dear mother, Malinda shared the same birthday.
During her early childhood years, she was a big help in the home to her mother, cooking, cleaning and taking care of her siblings. She completed grade school through the 8th grade at Rocky Point United Methodist School in Hesterville, MS. Some of her teachers were Ms. Tinnie Shine and Ms. Mattie Mae Murff. She professed Christ at a young age and was baptized at Stone Hill Church.
Lucille united in holy matrimony to Walter Clayton Thornton on December 24, 1944, in Holmes County, MS. To this union, seven children were born. She later married Nevels Love and two children were born.
Later in life, she became a devoted member of Rockhill Church of God. She served as the Sunday school secretary and worked with the Women-of-The Church of God. She was faithful in her duties and attendance, until her health failed.
Her illustrious life has been expressed through various passions and responsibilities. Some of her many talents and skills were farming, quilting, sewing, fishing, cooking, canning, gardening, carpentry, painter, caregiving and homemaker. She worked in a factory and as a housekeeper for a short time. She was a caregiver to many of her family members, devoting her love, time and resources to make sure their needs were met. Her faith in God, loving hands and caring heart nursed them back to health.
She was a babysitter to grandchildren and great grandchildren. She loved all of them, even giving some nicknames of her own such as: Bo, Boogie, Nia Mae, Lee and her Lil Ball Player (Kayden). During fun-loving times with the kids, she would call herself “The Champ.” She had a beautiful, funny sense of humor. She was a jack of all trades, and a handy woman that built houses and sheds. She had an incredible generosity, and her demeanor was one where she never met a stranger, and she always made everyone feel welcomed. Mom had tremendous Faith in God, believing in the power of prayer. She always prayed for her family and taught us to trust Him and have faith in the Lord always.
Lucille entered her eternal rest on January 5, 2025, at the Attala County Nursing Center in Kosciusko, MS.
She was preceded in death by her parents: Will and Malinda Allen; husbands: Nevels Love and Walter C. Thornton; three sons: Oscar, Thomas and Billy Floyd Thornton; one daughter: Lucy; six brothers: L.C. Herbert, Willie C, Charles, Samuel, and Ernestine; five sisters: Retha Prymer, Irma Ellis, Vernice Ellis, Elsteen Allen and Mae Bertha Allen; two granddaughters: Daphne V. Jones and Natasha L. Felton.
Lucille is treasured in memory by five loving and devoted children.
Three sons: Walter C. (Katie Boyd) Thornton, Jr., Hubert R. (Retha) Thornton, both of Milwaukee WI, Willie N. (Katina) Love, Kansas City, MO.
Two daughters: Vidella Winters and Oneida Love, both of West MS.
One loving brother: Willie James Allen and a loving and caring sister-in-law (Maxine Allen) of Powell, TN.
A loving sister-in-law: Ina Clara Allen of Chicago, IL.
Ten grandchildren: Shawn Jakubowski, Leslie McDowell, Daryl J. Thornton, Candice Jordan, Laronzo Palmer, Chardanae J. March, Cedric G. Felton, Willie N. Love, Jr., J.T. Carter and Arianna Love. twenty-four great grandchildren, 3 great-great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.
Also leaves a loving stepdaughter: Nola (John) Thornton, West, MS, and a host of step grandchildren, great grandchildren, two stepdaughters-in- law: Bessie Love of Kosciusko, MS and Bessie Love of Sallis, MS. A caring pastor, Rev. John L. Hunt.
PLACE OF SERVICE: Winters Funeral Home Chapel, Kosciusko, MS
DATE OF SERVICE: Saturday 01/18/2025 at 11:00 a.m.
INTERMENT: Rocky Point Cemetery, West, MS
VIEWING: Friday 01/17/2025 at 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. at Winters Funeral Home
VISITATION: Friday 01/17/2025 at 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. at Rockhill Church of God, West, MS
Willie Allen planted 5 trees in memory of Lucille Love Thornton . - January 18, 2025
The family of Lucille Love Thornton would like to express our sincere gratitude for the over whelming support, love and condolences extended during this difficult time. Your presence, comforting words, and acts of kindness have provided solace as we navigate through the loss of our beloved mother. We are truly touched by the outpouring of compassion from friends, family, and well-wishers.
Special thanks to Dr. John G. Wallace, Attala Nursing Center staff and Accent Hospice Care for their assistance and support. Your contributions have been a source of strength, and we are profoundly appreciative of the love shared in memory of Mother Lucille Love Thornton. With Heartfelt Appreciation, Thornton, Love and Allen Families.
Though your sister has passed, she's neither gone or forgotten. Throughout our friendship, Cille was often there playing a part in the fond memories you shared with me on our Marina walks. It was a blessing and honor to have gotten to know her through you. I have no doubt that Cille has finished the race and is now celebrating in Heaven. I pray that the Lord will bless you and your family with strength and comfort your hearts. Deborah Sharpe (A friend: Paraphrased by James)
Sorry to hear about the loss of your sister. I know the pain because I lost my only brother 10 years ago. As you know, your sister is in a better place. She is in peace. Drive safely to Mississippi. You and your family are in my prayers. Lynn (A friend: Paraphrased by James)
So sad to be the survivor Willie. It's been a time of big losses for all of us the last couple of years. My deepest sympathies. Hope the good memories together will fill your heart with comforting contentment. She's in a better place above all terrestrial suffering now. My heart is with you and family. Silvana Faria (A friend: Paraphrased by James)
Hi Daddy! Seeing your picture with Aunt Cille brought smiles and tears to my eyes. While I spent more of my "adult" life interacting with Aunt Steen and Aunt Dude, I always remember Aunt Cille's house was the first stop before we went to see grandmother. When I stayed with Daphne, we would go up to Aunt Cille's house for cold drinks and to play sometimes. My memories of her are wonderful memories because she was often the last house on our way back home...and she always seemed to have canned food or cakes or something she cooked that she shared with us. I l learned more about what family means for the financially poorest, but most wealthy in spirit people. I strive to be wealthy in spirit because of the family you gave me as a child. Sorry for your time of bereavement, and please know we are keeping you and family close in our hearts. D'Yuanna Allen-Robb (Paraphrased by James)
Good morning Unc. You and the Family are in my thoughts and prayers on the transition of Aunt Lucille. She lived a long life and saw many generations. Love you'll. Brenda White (Paraphrased by James)
Hi! Family. I'm saddened to hear of Cille's passing. I'm praying for our family, that Godwill confort and bring peace to the family. I love you all. Cousin Gretchen (Paraphrased by James)
Hi! Uncle James. My condolences to you on the loss of your big sister. I'm glad we had her as long as we did. I went to see her on New Year day and I knew she was weak and tired, but thank God she made it to the New Year. Cherish the memories. Edna Love (Paraphrased by James)
Aunt Lucille, I was so sorry to hear about your passing, but I know that I will see you again, in God's own timing, in the New Jerusalem! Keith Washington (Paraphrased by James)
Hi! James. I'm still thinking of and praying for you and family. May Cille's Soul Rest In God's Peace and Glory. Bobbie Neal Perkins (Paraphrased by James)
I'm sorry for the loss of your sister, our love one, my aunt, but stay as strong as you can. You and family are in my prayers. Lawrence Ellis (Paraphrased by James)
Hi! Willie, I will not be able to attend the funeral tomorrow. My thoughts are with you and family. Ossie Thornton (Paraphrased by James)
Big Sister, you have been a tower of strength, perseverance, and a treasure trove of family history. We are honored to have been a part of your 97 years of generosity, caring and nurturing love. Maxine and Willie Allen
Our sympathy to the family of Lucille Thornton our prayers are with all of you Love and God Bless. Maxine (Thornton)Robinson.
My deepest condolences to the Thornton and Allen family. May God continue to provide you with comfort. She was a beautiful woman. Blessings Sonya McAuley-Allen
My prayers and condolences to the entire Thornton, Allen and Love families. May God bless you and give you strength and comfort as you go through these most difficult moments. I will always remember the times as a kid I spent around cousin Lucille. "Sharon S Armstrong-Canton, Michigan"
Aunt Cille, thank you for all your love. Though it has been several years since I last saw you in person, I can still feel your hugs. Thank you for encouraging me at an early age and helping me to have a positive outlook on life. As you enter into the kingdom, may you hear those precious words... "well done, good and faithful servant." Love, Rev. Aldana W. Allen
Our staff will continue to keep your family in our prayers. We thank you for allowing us to serve your family.
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