James P. Thornton Sr.

James P. Thornton Sr., 88, of Huntingdon, went to be with The Lord on Sunday, May 19, 2024, at Embassy of Hearthside, State College.

Jim was born Dec. 22, 1935, in Mahanoy City, a son of the late Peter James Thornton and Josephine (Rzepli?ski) Thornton.

He was united in marriage to the former Elaine M. Sebalusky on Oct. 15, 1960.

Mrs. Thornton preceded him in death on Jan. 26, 2024, after 63 years of marriage.

He was preceded in death by two siblings, Jack Thornton and Rosanne Ogrodnick.

He is survived by three children, Cheryl M. Thornton, of Huntingdon, James P. "J.P." Thornton Jr. and Jo, of Bellefonte, and Scott A. Thornton, of Florida. He is also survived by a grandson, Spencer J. Korman and significant other, Rayna Wise, of Newark, N.J., and a sister, Genevieve Ziegmont, of Morea.

Mr. Thornton was of the Catholic faith and was a graduate of Mahanoy Area High School.

He was employed as a construction and engineering specialist by the Army Corps of Engineers. He relocated his family to Huntingdon to assist with the construction of Raystown Dam and retired in 2000.

Mr. Thornton was an outdoorsman who liked hunting, fishing and doing yardwork. He also enjoyed collecting coins and traveling with his wife, Elaine. Above all, he enjoyed spending time with his family, especially his grandson, Spencer.

At the request of the family, all services will be held privately. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions in remembrance of James P. Thornton Sr. may be made to Huntingdon County Humane Society, 11371 School House Hollow Road, Huntingdon, PA 16652. To sign an online guest book and express condolences, visit www.johnbbrownfuneralhome.com. Arrangements are under the direction of John B. Brown Funeral Home, 417 Washington St., Huntingdon, PA 16652.