Jesse Hampton Thornton, III

Retired Columbus Police Sgt. Jesse Hampton Thornton, III, age 75, passed away unexpectedly at home on Friday, September 5, 2025.

Born in Fort Sill, Oklahoma, Jesse was the son of the late Eva “Evi” Brunner Thornton. A proud veteran of the Vietnam War, Jesse began his distinguished career with the City of Columbus in 1972. In 1975, he was sworn in as a Deputy Marshal and later transferred to the Columbus Police Department in 1977. While serving as a police officer, Jesse pursued higher education, earning his Bachelor’s degree in 1979 and his Master’s degree in 1980, both from Troy State University. After 33 years of dedicated service to the citizens of Columbus, he retired in 2005.

Jesse is survived by his loving wife of 27 years, Flaline Whitehead Thornton; his children: Rhonda (Mark) Davis, Sonya (Greg) Goodroe, Crissy (Brent) Wise, Angela Thornton, Heather (Philip) Goff, and Timothy Thornton; his siblings: Johnny Thornton, Richard Thornton, and Rita (Rusty) Richardson; 17 grandchildren, 6 great-grandchildren; and many extended family members and friends who held a special place in his heart.

He is preceded in death by his mother Eva Thornton and his brother Benjamin Thornton.

Georgia was Jesse’s home for most of his life, and he was a devoted fan of the Georgia Bulldogs, Atlanta Falcons, and Atlanta Braves. He found joy in hunting, fishing, and riding his Harley—always embracing the outdoors with passion and peace. Jesse’s humor, wit, and unwavering love for his family will be remembered and cherished. He taught his children the values of love, strength, and purpose, and his legacy will live on in the lives he touched. He will be deeply missed by his family, friends and the community he served.

Graveside services will be held 1:30 PM Friday, September 12, 2025 at Ft. Mitchell National Cemetery. Visitation will be held Friday 11:00 – 12:30 PM at McMullen Funeral Home and Crematory, 3874 Gentian Blvd. Columbus, Ga. 31907.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society or Fraternal Order of Police 9 Karl F Eidam Lodge.