Edward Everett Thornton

Edward and Betty took me on as an informal "adopted child" when I moved to Louisville in 1994 and were kind to me beyond words. Unfortunately, I moved from Louisville in 2001 and soon "life" had its way and grave difficulties followed which consumed me and I lost touch... Just today, I had a moment to think back and googled Edward (and also Betty)--the internet is an amazing thing, isn't it? Thank you, Katherine, for posting his picture. I do not think I have any photos of him so...

I cannot do justice to what Edward meant to me in a few words. He was a mentor, a professor, a surrogate father, a friend, and someone who gently brought out the best in me. My life and those of my counselees have been enriched by his patience and his expansive view of ministry and the spiritual life.

Thank you, Edward.

Betty, Katherine, and Brent, you are my beloved ones.

Wow Katherine! Now I know why you are such a wonderful person. I wish I could have met your father. He sounds like a treasure of a person! (((HUGS))) to you and Brent. May God give you peace. Love and Light,

Dear Betty and Katherine,

Knowing Edward was one of the great joys of my life. Edward became a friend and spiritual mentor when I attended one of his meditation retreats. Afterwards, for several years I was a member of the meditation group that met in his office. Through his students, who were, and still are, my pastoral counselors, and through becoming one of his "meditators," Edward profoundly affected and changed my life. I still use the meditation and prayer methods he taught and I...

such joy must be on God's face when Mr. Thornton joined Him in Heaven! i have loved you both since i was little and when mom (Mary Ann Bootes) told me of his death I knew i must reconnect. You sent me letters once a month in college which cheered up my boring days. You always had a hug for me as i grew to become an adult. Thank you both for your hugs and happy thoughts.

We met this wonderful man, and his lovely wife, in 1988. They graciously invited us to be apart of a wonderful congregation of folks, that became family to us. We will forever hold such fond memories of our visits, and lunches! Greg & Brian

Comfort and peace to you all in this time of grief, yet celebration of life.

Dear Betty and Katherine:
We were so sorry to learn of Edward's death. We have fond
memories of our times together at Crozer and Rochester.
He was a creative teacher and colleague. We miss the
opportunities to talk and share. Bless you!

Albert and Virginia Meiburg

Dear Betty and Katherine,
I only had one class with Ed, but it was an important one--his class on Spirituality and the Ministry. I still have the notebook and use the Tapestry model. We went to Loretto on retreat and were challenged to go beyond our growth edges. Ed was an inspiration to many people; that is his legacy which will live on.
Grace and peace,
Mary Zimmer