Mike Thornton

Mike Thornton, age 86, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 30, 2018, at Mount Carmel East Hospital, West. He was born on December 2, 1931 in Columbus, Ohio to Mike Thornton, Sr. and Lucy L. Thornton who both predeceased him. Mike, who was affectionately called Junior, attend public school in Columbus, Ohio and served in the U.S. Air Force. He married the love of his life, JoAnn Kerley on June 2, 1965 in Columbus, Ohio. Junior never had children of his own; but became a loving step-father to JoAnn’s son Derrick Kerley. Junior was also preceded in death by his wife and step-son.

Junior worked in the Maintenance Department for 3M, a company that manufactured and sold automobile emblems worldwide. He retired from 3M in 1991,

Junior was a man of few words, but when he spoke you knew he had a sense of humor and a kindness about himself. He was also a “home-body”. He enjoyed the simple comforts of home, and didn’t require much to be content with life. According to his nephew Richard Bell who was his caregiver, Junior enjoyed watching the TV show Gunsmoke .

Junior was of the generation that took personal responsibility for himself and his family by persevering through difficult times. He exhibited a humble, modest nature and a strong work ethic. He was financially prudent, living within his means. He was faithfully committed to his wife JoAnn until her passing in 2013.

Junior will be fondly remembered by his sisters, Anna Nadine Howell and Carole Darling and brother Aaron Thornton. He is also survived by step-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members and friends.

In addition to his parents, spouse and step-son, Junior is also predeceased by, brothers, Herman Thornton, James Thornton, Cyril N. Thornton and Donald Thornton; Sisters Elizabeth Burden, Evelyn Tucker and Rachel Bradley.

Visitation 11 am Funeral 12pm Friday February 9, 2018 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME , THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave,

Interment , Eastlawn Cemetery