Eric Michael Thornton

Eric Michael Thornton obituary, Belle Glade, FL

Eric Michael Thornton

Eric Thornton Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jul. 28, 2024.
Eric Thornton, 45 years of age, tragically passed away and went to his heavenly home on Friday, July 19, 2024. He was a beloved grandson, son, brother, uncle, and respected friend.

Born on April 16, 1979, Eric was an easy going, sweet, loving boy that grew up in Boca Raton, FL. As a child, Eric enjoyed being with his family, playing baseball and soccer, and fishing with Pop-pop (Grandpa).

A graduate of Boca Raton High School, Eric was presented with the Plank Award for being the first and only student to graduate completing four full years of the Navy Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC). Although he aspired to serve in the military, his plans were altered due to diabetes. He pursued further education at Palm Beach Community College, later earning a Bachelor's Degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida in Orlando.

Professionally, Eric dedicated himself to landscaping, following his passion for the outdoors. He also volunteered extensively at Big Dog Ranch Rescue caring for animals. He loved God, attending church, surfing, music, sports, military history and films, his family, being an uncle, and helping people. He was the kindest, most loving, forgiving soul. Eric always made time to listen to your problems and help you talk them through. He was always down to hang out with his family and share a cigar with his Father and Brother. You name it, he would get involved.

Eric is survived by his parents, Michael and Cynthia Thornton; his brother, Trent; his sister, Lindsay; his nephew, Taylor; nieces, Emma and Jolene; and his beloved cat, Mr. Dinky.

No matter the obstacles he faced, he never complained, and he possessed endless perseverance. Perseverance was built in him, it was one of the many qualities God gifted him with. He was a world class optimist and an unbelievably happy person. A thoughtful, humble gentleman that will be missed dearly. He finished the race well and ran it with utmost endurance.

A Celebration of Life will be held on August 4, 2024, at Canal Point Methodist Church, 37050 2nd St, Canal Point, FL, at 11:15 AM.

The family has requested that in lieu of flowers, donations be made to the American Diabetes Association, which can be accessed at (https://diabetes.org/ways-to-give/in-honor-gift)

"He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you, but to do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God."
Micah 6:8

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July 29, 2024

Samantha Nicassio posted to the memorial.

July 29, 2024

Joselyn becerra posted to the memorial.

July 29, 2024

Liz posted to the memorial.

Samantha Nicassio

July 29, 2024

I´m sorry he passed away

Joselyn becerra

July 29, 2024

What is my first memory of Eric his smile the way he made all his friends laugh I miss the he made me laugh such a good person he was to me I miss the he would say haha God blessed another angel with him up there your beloved girlfriend joselyn becerra you will always be in my heart

Liz

July 29, 2024

I miss the way he said Ha ha and I know.

Tammy Greene

July 28, 2024

Eric was such a kind hearted soul. He had a calming demeanor and just loved all living things. He will be greatly missed. My heart goes out to all who have survived him as our hearts are hurting. My hope and prayer is that precious memories help to sustain everyone during this difficult time. Just know that he is not suffering and is with his Eternal Maker. Love you all
XOXOXOXO

Adam Thornton

July 27, 2024

RIP nephew see one day in heaven

Karen Molinski

July 27, 2024

Dearest Mike, Cyndy, family and friends: My heart is heavily burdened for all of you in the sad and sudden loss of Eric. He was such a special person and I was so proud to call him my nephew. He possessed the happiest disposition and he was always smiling. People were always greeted by him with open arms and a warm hug. Although I did not get to see him as often as I would have liked, I was blessed by him when we did meet. He was so special to talk to and I will never forget those precious moments in time. He was the cutest little boy-so happy, and I know how much he loved the R.O.T.C. Program at Boca High. I was so proud of him at his High School Graduation and I know how much Eric loved the Lord. Now I can just picture him, beaming from ear to ear as he is in the presence of the Lord-praising Him night and day. We will all miss Eric here on Earth but our loss is heaven´s gain. Until we meet again Eric, know you are loved and truly missed.

Robin Sward

July 27, 2024

I´m so sorry for your loss. Eric always has such a sweet demeanor. Always a smile. He´s prob surfing with my brother on the best waves they could ever imagine! I pray the Lord continues to wrap his loving arms around you all!

Shawn Thornton

July 27, 2024

Eric for a time was going to Calvary Chapel Church for a time with a group of us. He was always in a good and happy mood. I have many fond memories of our youth. When we were younger we used to love playing the board game risk, but our favorite was stratego. Eric was always the blue army and I was always the red army. As we got older a group of us would link up and play a computer game called Age of Empires. I remember during those times, we nick named him E-Trade, but that's a Tale for another time. But the real story to share was his belief in our Lord. It is because of his belief and and his salvation that all who believe will see him again, as King David exclaimed in 2 Samuel 12:23. Eric now is in a place, where all is perfect for an eternity. So until we meet again, save me a seat and the Lords table.

P.S. - Ecclesiastes 7:1 - your name and reputation will always remain.

Well.done good and faithful servant.

Shawn Thornton

July 27, 2024

God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Katie Foley

July 26, 2024

Eric was a childhood friend in my neighborhood. Within months of moving to Cedar Ridge, I was riding bikes, shooting hoops, collecting baseball cards, swimming and playing pickle at the Thornton´s with Eric and Trent. Eric was a kind soul and would always give you the whole truth, even if you didn´t want to hear it. For anyone that never knew him, he was a good man with a pure heart. His intentions were based in altruism and though the rest of us aged and changed, Eric remained to be the boy that I grew up with, just with more responsibilities and facial hair. Thank you Eric for being my friend when I needed it most and treating me like one of the boys. You were my first pretend band mate (Zeta 2) and boogie boarding buddy. Help guide your brother and sister up there in the spirit world and I will see you again ol´ friend.

Rebecca Sward

July 26, 2024

I will always remember Eric and his laugh and the way he always wanted to tease you Lindsay! The word that comes to mind is kindness when I think of your brother. We love your family and so deeply sorry for this great loss. I am sure he is surfing on heavenly waves, with endless golden hours!

Love,
Becca Sward xo

Lynda Benkel

July 26, 2024

Mike, Cyndy and Family
Our prayers are with you.
Scott and Lynda

Becky Bush

July 26, 2024

Eric was a kind and gentle person who had the strongest work ethic of anyone I have ever known. His love of animals was something to be emulated. Miss Penny says "thanks for all your love and attention". He will be missed greatly. Fly high, Eric. Check out that rainbow bridge since you will be in the neighborhood.

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July 29, 2024

Samantha Nicassio posted to the memorial.

July 29, 2024

Joselyn becerra posted to the memorial.

July 29, 2024

Liz posted to the memorial.