James Perry Thornton

Mr. James Perry Thornton
October 7, 1934-March 19, 2025

James Perry Thornton, son of the late Gideon and Emily Robinson Thornton was born on October 7, 1934 in Warrenton, North Carolina. Perry peacefully departed this earthly life on March 19, 2025.

One of twelve surviving children, Perry, was raised in a loving family. The Thornton Family included John William, Weldon, William H., Kemp, Spencer, Thomas, Caroline, Mary Jane, Martha, Bessie, and Nancy. He accepted Christ at an early age and attended Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Macon, North Carolina where is father was the Chair of the Deacon Board. Perry received his education from the Warren County Public Schools .

Shortly after completing his education Perry moved to Baltimore ,Maryland. He worked at Bethlehem Steel Corp., where he was often promoted during his career. In addition to the job at Bethlehem Steel, Perry sharpened his entrepreneurial skills at his transportation company, "hack stand".

On March 17,1955 Perry was married to Ethel Mae Higgins who preceded him in death. To this union, a son, James Perry Jr. was born. Always a good provider, Perry made sure that Ethel had a sewing room in the house for her favorite hobby. They loved their little dog ‘Candy’ and later in life Perry would take the time to sit on his back porch and feed the birds.

Perry always had a joke or humorous words to share. He enjoyed spending time with his siblings at impromptu family reunions and he kept everyone laughing. Perry spent time with his niece, Martha Thornton. Perry was a sports enthusiast. He was an Orioles Fan, and he was a devoted season ticket holding Baltimore Ravens Fan. He had season tickets for over 30 years and enjoyed trips to Atlantic City , North Carolina and Virginia.

Indeed, Perry lived his best life and enjoyed life one laugh at a time.

Perry’s wife, Ethel, son, James Perry Jr. and siblings predeceased him as well as his nieces Martha Thornton, Helen Gee, Josie Gee and nephews, Jon Gee, Isaac Harris Jr., Rodney Thornton, and Kit Robinson . Perry’s friend, Shirley Womble also predeceased him.

Mr. Thornton leaves his beloved nieces Emily Gee and Christy Oliver and nephew Glenn . Thornton .