John Wesley Thornton

In loving memory, John Wesley Thornton, passed away Saturday, January 9, 2010, at his home in Virginia Beach, VA, at the age of 81. Left to honor his memory are his son, John David Thornton of Virginia Beach, VA; daughter, Allison Marshburn and son-in-law, James P. Marshburn of Apopka, FL; sister, Mary Packer of Fayetteville, NC, and sister, Rose Peele and brother-in-law, David Peele, and sister-in-law, Emily Thornton from Raleigh, NC. John had a legacy of family, generosity, loyalty, strength and perseverance. His kind and charismatic personality endeared him to many. Never a stranger did he meet. John was born in Clinton, NC in 1928 to his late mother, Emma Jane and father, James Wesley Thornton. He joined the Navy at 18 years of age. While visiting Virginia Beach, he met his wonderful wife, Ruth. They married in 1949 and resided in Virginia Beach for 60 years. Most will remember John as "John the Barber", owner of John's Barber Shop in London Bridge. Many conversations took place there, but most topics revolved around bass fishing, John's favorite sport! He was a very special man and will be greatly missed. The family will receive friends for viewing on Monday, January 11, 2010, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Hollomon-Brown Funeral Home, 1264 Great Neck Road, North, Virginia Beach, VA. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday, January 12, 2010, in the funeral home. A reception will follow with location to be announced. Condolences may be offered to the family at www.hollomon-brown.com.