Lorna J. Thornbury

1942 - 2025

Lorna J. Thornbury

OLEAN - Lorna J. Thornbury, a devoted wife, loving mother and dedicated nursery and preschool teacher, passed away peacefully at the age of 82 on Saturday (April 5, 2025) at Olean General Hospital.

Born July 5, 1942, she was the daughter of the late Loran and Elouise Chaffee Sandy. On Sept. 1, 1961, in her hometown of Olean, Lorna embarked on a lifelong journey when she married the love of her life, Paul M. Thornbury. Their union was a testament to enduring love and commitment, celebrating their 55th wedding anniversary before Paul's passing on Sept. 27, 2016.

For 38 years, Lorna dedicated herself to the children of Olean as a nurturing nursery and preschool teacher at the Olean YMCA. Her unwavering dedication to her students was evident in the warmth and joy she exuded each morning as she embarked on her mission to educate and inspire. She took immense pride in witnessing former students return with their own children, a testament to the enduring legacy she built. Lorna's legacy extends beyond her professional life; it is rooted in the love she shared with her family and the energy she poured into the YMCA nursery and preschool program.

Lorna's greatest source of pride and joy was her family. Her two grandchildren were the light of her life, and she never missed an opportunity to support them in their sporting events and extracurricular activities. Her heart brimmed with pride as she watched them achieve their dreams, and her love for them knew no bounds.

Lorna and Paul shared a deep affection for cats, with a special place in their hearts for their beloved feline companion, Machiavelli, affectionately known as Macky. Lorna loved taking Macky for leisurely walks on their property on a leash and even included him in their yearly vacation to Hollywood, Fla.

Lorna's commitment to health and community extended to her lifelong membership at the YMCA. She enjoyed daily weekday workouts, although her time was often spent working her jaw muscles as she spent time socializing with fellow Y members. Her social spirit added warmth and vitality to the YMCA community, leaving an incredible mark on all who knew her.

In the hearts of those who knew her, Lorna Thornbury's memory will live on as a beacon of love, dedication, and warmth. Her impact on generations of children and her enduring love for her family and furry companions will be cherished forever.

Lorna is survived by her loving children, son Paul H. (Soraya Gómez) Thornbury of Hollywood, Fla. and daughter Suzy M. (George) Broadbent of Olean. Her heart swelled with pride for her two grandchildren, Alicia Broadbent of Olean and Dr. Geoffrey P. Broadbent of Washington, D.C. Her sister, Ariel Molenda; along with her cousins, Gerri Stavish, Bobby Haggerty, Jan Haggerty and Amy Borbon; and many dear friends; remained a steadfast source of support and companionship.

In addition to her husband, Lorna was preceded in death by her parents; brothers, John, Glenn and Tom Sandy; and half-sister, Anita Moskos.

Friends will be received from noon to 3 p.m. Thursday (April 10, 2025) at the Letro-McIntosh-Spink Funeral Home, Inc., 646 E. State St., Olean, at which time a memorial service will be held. Rev. Tony Evans will officiate.

In honor of Lorna's lifelong dedication to nurturing young minds and shaping future generations, the family kindly requests that, in lieu of flowers, contributions be made to a scholarship fund established in her memory. Contributions may be directed to the Lorna J. Thornbury Memorial Scholarship c/o the Cattaraugus Region Community Foundation, 301 N. Union St., Olean, NY 14760. This fund will support students pursuing careers in education and healthcare that reflect Lorna's passion for teaching, caring and making a lasting difference in the lives of others. As a devoted preschool teacher, Lorna believed deeply in the power of early learning and spent her life inspiring curiosity, kindness, and growth in every child she taught.

Online condolences may be made at www.letromcintoshspinkfuneralhome.com.