James Thornton

James Walter Thornton, passed away peacefully with his family by his side at Jefferson Torresdale Hospital on Thursday, August 7, 2025, at the age of 67. A lifelong resident of Philadelphia, Jim was a proud 1976 graduate of Washington High School. After marrying the love of his life, Barbara, they decided to raise their family in Northeast Philadelphia. Jim greatly enjoyed cooking, especially for his family and friends, and was a kind hearted animal lover. But his true passion was horticulture. From caring for house plants, tending to his abundant gardens, and creating beautiful landscaping, being a gardener was what he did best. James was predeceased by his parents, Nancy (nee Crowder) and Irvin Thornton. Jim is the beloved husband of 45 years to Barbara (nee Bennett); loving father of Danielle (Michael) Lawrence, Nicholas (Elizabeth) Thornton, Douglas (Heather) Thornton, Amanda (Edward) Heebner and Kyle Thornton; and devoted grandfather of Jocelynn, Ava, Alexis and Sariyah Lawrence, Riley and Mackenzie Thornton, Paige and Harper Thornton, Reagan and Delaney Heebner and Layla Talbert. Jim will also be deeply missed by his sisters, Sharon Perpetua and Cathy Thornton. At the request of Jim, all services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, Jim's wish was to direct memorial contributions in his memory to Longwood Gardens at the following link https://longwoodgardens.org/. support/honor-and-memorial-gifts OR by sending a contribution to Longwood Gardens Attn: Philanthropy/Memorial Gifts PO Box 501 Kennett Square, PA 19348 To share a memory of James, please visit www.tjfluehr.com