John Pryor Thornburg

John Pryor Thornburg, age 90, of Stockbridge, Georgia, passed away peacefully on Monday, November 24, 2025, surrounded by his family at home. He was born on March 31, 1935, in Abbeville, Georgia, the son of the late John Wesley Thornburg and Launa Farrow Thornburg. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by his brother, Lewis Thornburg.
John served his country in the army, including time in Korea following the war. He returned to a busy and productive business life in Atlanta, culminating in nearly 30 years of owning and operating a successful freight company. Until his retirement, he was known as one of the most skilled truck drivers in Atlanta. A dedicated Mason for 62 years, John embodied the principles of honor, integrity, and service. Throughout all of his endeavors, he was driven overall by growing and supporting his family. His work ethic, loyalty to all he served, and steadfast commitment to doing things right were defining parts of his character.
John loved the outdoors, especially when riding his tractor, gardening, or identifying birds. He also enjoyed his grill and gatherings around the table, which were filled with good food and good stories. Whether feeding the birds or feeding his family, John put his heart into everything he did. John was a man whose entire life was centered around the people he loved. He found his greatest joy simply being surrounded by his family and friends, sharing the big and small moments that became the memories they will forever hold close.
He leaves behind his wife, Carol B. Thornburg; children, Susan McDonald (Martin), John C. Thornburg (Angie), Lisa Hutcheson (Sam), and Stephen Eady (Carrie); a daughter-in-law, Sandra Thornburg; seven grandchildren; four great-grandchildren; as well as several nieces, nephews, and extended family members.
A service to honor John's life will be held on Saturday, November 29, 2025, beginning at 11 a.m. in the chapel of Cannon Cleveland Funeral Directors. Father John William Klein will officiate the service. Interment will follow at Hillandale Memorial Gardens in Lithonia. The family will receive friends from 10 a.m. until the service begins. Those who wish may sign the online guest registry at www.cannonclevelandfunerals.com To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of John, please visit our floral store.