Dennis Ryan Thornton

Dennis Ryan Thornton, lovingly known to many as Ryan, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024, in San Marcos, Texas, at the age of 43.

Ryan was born on March 5, 1981, to Howard Dennis Thornton and Deborah Renee Hernandez in Fort Worth,TX. He graduated from Richland High School in 1999 and pursued his passion for personal training before returning to his family's business in asphalt construction. Over an 11-year career, Ryan worked as a QC Manager and Supervisor for various companies.

Ryan was known for his humor and lightheartedness. A self-proclaimed class clown, he brought joy to those around him with his silly nicknames for his dogs and impromptu songs about everyday life. He was a loving son, brother, coach, and friend who cared deeply for others. Ryan bravely shared his journey with mental health and addiction challenges in the hope of inspiring others. His inclusivity and compassion touched countless lives. He loved big.

Anyone who spent any amount of time with Ryan would know how much he cared for and loved his sister, Alichia Thornton Ray. He would often speak highly of her and how proud he was of her and all of her achievements in life. He admired how she faced challenges head-on. Alichia inspired Ryan to dream big, set goals, and achieve them. When Ryan needed advice-whether for business or personal matters-his sister was his trusted go-to person. He often spoke of how he wanted to make her proud.

Ryan was incredibly talented and smart. He enjoyed painting, singing, writing, and music. He loved staying active through hockey, fitness, and his recent obsession with pickleball. He found joy in traveling to new places and learning about the world.

Ryan was previously married to Wendy Redden of Dallas, TX, in 2005 until their recent divorce. Together, they were blessed with Declin Rian Thornton (18) and Deirdre Reyn Thornton (14). They shared many incredible memories and trips as a family. One of Ryan's favorite memories was when they hosted an exchange student, as well as coaching baseball and watching his children play sports. Ryan remained committed to sharing in the joys and challenges of raising their children. They were his heart and soul.

In 2023, Ryan found a second chance at love with Lively Eve Mills. They enjoyed photography, sunrises, sunsets, stargazing, music, deep conversations, inside jokes, being competitive with each other, volunteering, and the quest for a great cup of coffee, as Lively was from Seattle. Tragically, Ryan passed away the day before his son Gabriel Ryan Thornton was born. The night before his passing, Ryan and Lively were working on a painting together of a lotus, their shared favorite flower, for their son's nursery. Sadly, the painting was never completed.

Ryan was a devoted father and partner, leaving behind a legacy of love and memories that will continue to inspire those who knew him.

Ryan is survived by his grandfather, Danny "PoPo" Hernandez; parents Dennis Howard Thornton and Deborah Hernandez; sister Alichia Ray and brother-in-law Nathan Ray; niece Sophia Ray; nephew Connor Thornton; great-niece Oaklee Thornton; his beloved children Declin, Deirdre, and Gabriel Thornton; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends.