Hazel Charlene Thornburg

With Profound sadness we announce the passing of Hazel Charlene Jones Thornburg, 72, of Rock Hill, South Carolina. Charlene entered into rest on February 21,2026 at her home, surrounded by her loving family.

Charlene was born October 23, 1953 in Lancaster, South Carolina. She was the daughter of Dolores Taylor Jones and the late Ralph B. Jones Sr. of Kershaw, South Carolina.

In addition to her mother, Charlene is survived by her loving husband of 46 years, Gary Thornburg. Her son Taylor (Ginny) Thornburg and granddaughter Ella of Rock Hill. Bonus grandchildren Jake (Shannon) Thornburg of Myrtle Beach, Samantha Thornburg of Rock Hill and 4 great grandchildren. Her brother Stephen (Darlene) Jones of Kershaw, brother-in-law Tom Lenz of Summerville, sister-in-law Donica Jones of Kershaw, and brother-in-law Farrell (Pat) Thornburg of Asheboro, NC. Numerous Nieces and nephews and great nieces and great nephews.

In addition to her father, she is preceded in death by her sister Sheila Jones Lenz, her brothers Ralph B. Jones Jr and Chet B Jones. As well as her two bonus sons Roger Thornburg and Ted Thornburg.

Charlene graduated from Andrew Jackson High School in Kershaw, South Carolina. She Graduated Winthrop University in 1974 with an early childhood education degree. She later obtained her Masters +30 degree in education from Winthrop.

Charlene was a devoted elementary teacher for 45 years. She taught at Lesslie Elementary, Oakdale Elementary, Central Childhood Development Center.

Charlene's greatest joys came from spending time with her family, especially her granddaughter Ella. Charlene was a devoted wife, Mother, Mother-in-law, Nana, Daughter, Sister, and Aunt to her family. She was an avid reader She enjoyed the beach and spending time outdoors either sitting or walking in the sunshine. She has numerous close friends she enjoyed spending time with, many of these go all the way back to her high school and college years. Charlene had a contagious laugh that always brightened the room and those around her.

A service to honor and celebrate a life well lived will be held at 1:30 PM on Saturday, February 28, 2026, at Mount Holly Methodist Church, 1996 Mt Holly Rd, Rock Hill, SC 29730, with Rev. Wayne Smith officiating. The family will receive friends for visitation beginning at 12:15 PM at the church.

Those wishing to honor Charlene's memory may make memorial contributions to the charity of one's choice.