Mary E. Thornton

Mary Elizabeth Thornton (affectionately known as “Betty”) was born January 2, 1932 in Columbus, Ohio to the late Estella D. Smith and Young Mitchell. She was called to eternal rest on Wednesday, September 23, 2020.

Betty accepted Christ at an early age. Throughout her lifetime, she faithfully served in many ministries, beginning with Bethany Baptist Church, Ebenezer Baptist Church, and lastly, First Church of God, under Bishop Timothy J. Clarke. She was a true missionary and loved serving the Kingdom of God.

Betty spent her formative years caring for her mother and as a domestic worker. She took delight in bringing out the best in others by ensuring their clothing was impeccably pressed. Self-educated, Betty also used this outlet to mingle and connect with community leaders and influencers. She left an impression wherever she went, but especially in the Southeast Columbus community. Later, she retired from Hair-N-Stuff Beauty Supply after 15 years of service as a cashier and store manager. Betty was also an avid baseball fan.

Sixty-four years of a feisty, yet passionate marriage, Betty, along with her late husband James, took pride in caring for their family and community. Everyone lived at 746 Kimball Place at one time or another – family, friends, and friends of friends. The love James and Betty poured into their five children was cascaded down to the many generations that followed. On any given day, you could find the two of them supporting their family in more ways than one.

Those who knew her closely, also knew her as “Bargain Betty!” She was frugal, yet resourceful, which was necessary for a large and continuously growing family. She will be missed for her wittiness and tenacious energy.

Betty is preceded in death by her husband James Thornton Sr., Parents, brother Thomas Brinson, two sisters, Juanita Brinson and Phyllis Smith, stepbrother Basil Smith, stepsister Elizabeth Smith, and daughter Theresa Ervin.

Matriarch of six living generations, she is survived by daughters, Sharon Jenkins (late Rufus Jenkins), Brenda Green, sons James Thornton Jr. and Gary Thornton, and God daughter Gwendolyn Ray, a host of grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and great-great-great grandchildren, along with many relatives and friends. She will forever be remembered by “Blessed by the Best, God Almighty!”

Visitation 10:00 AM and PRIVATE (TICKET REQUIRED) Funeral Service 11:00 AM Friday, October 2, 2020 at First Church of God, 3480 Refugee Rd.

A MASK IS MANDATORY.

Interment at Evergreen Burial Park.