Gary V. Thornhill

Gary V. Thornhill of Fulton passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025. With the help of his longtime companion, Connie (CJ) Blue, he had fought the good fight against cancer, after his diagnosis in August of 2024.

Gary was born in Moberly on November 21, 1946, to Van and Betty Thornhill. Until just recently, he lived his entire life in Boone County. He was a proud United States Army Veteran and spent his entire professional career working for the University of Missouri, where he taught physiology to medical school students. During that time, he was also a research specialist and studied heart disease with his mentor, Dr. Zatzman. Together they co-authored articles on their research.

During retirement, Gary could be found on the golf course with his brothers and friends or outdoors tending to his garden and working in the yard. He was an avid reader and was known for his sarcasm, humor, and love for Ford Mustangs. His most obvious joy was seen when speaking of his grand and great grandchildren, whom he would often brag about.

Gary was preceded in death by his parents, his former wife Susan Kay Thornhill and son, Brian. He is survived by his four brothers (Romie, Randy, Steve and Curt), three sisters (Connie, Cathy and Juni), his son Jason, wife Leslie and grandchildren Cooper and Kenley, daughter Lisa and granddaughters Hanna and Amber, her husband Grayden and great grandsons Baylor and Knox, grandson Coty Brooks and his wife Madeline and great grandsons Connor and Nolan.

Gary requested cremation and no services, but asked if anyone were inclined, a donation to St. Judes Hospital would make him happy.