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Franklyn Thornton Obituary
She was born July 4, 1922 in Maxeys, GA, located in Oglethorpe County, where her ancestors had first settled in 1801. Her parents were the late Frank and Lila Strozier Maxey. Franklyn grew up in Maxeys, attended the local elementary and high schools, and was a member of the Maxeys Christian Church.
She met her late husband, Wesley B. Thornton, in Atlanta, GA, where they were married in 1943. Following his time of service in the Navy during WWII, they returned to his hometown of Tampa, FL, where they settled and raised their three children. They made many trips back to Oglethorpe County through the years to visit family and friends and attend Homecoming services at Maxeys Christian Church.
Franklyn was very active at Northgate Baptist Church in Tampa as a Sunday School teacher, an auxiliary officer, a regular visitor to the local nursing homes and hospitals and a supporter of foreign missions.
Following the death of her husband in December, 1997, Franklyn spent more time visiting family and friends in Georgia and finally chose to permanently return to her roots in Oglethorpe County.
Survivors are daughter, Gail Thornton Wood, Tampa, and her husband, George; daughter Barbara Thornton Cabaniss, Stephens, GA; son, Frank B. Thornton, Athens, GA; grandson, Cary Reece and his wife, Tracy and their daughters Jessica and Jaime, Woodstock, GA; siblings Eleanor Simonds, Lexington, GA; Roberta McKinley, Douglasville, GA; Sue McKinney, Augusta, GA; Malcom Maxey, Spring Hill, FL; Clifford Maxey, Crawford, GA; Meadow Maxey, Lexington, GA; Leonard Maxey, Tampa, FL; Myron Maxey, Jonesboro, GA.
Funeral service will be held at the Maxeys Christian Church on Tuesday, December 20th, at 11:00 AM. Officiating will be the Reverends Len Bernat and Dan Maxey.
In lieu of flowers, Franklyn would have appreciated memorials donated to her beloved Maxeys Christian Church.
Lord & Stephens, Crawford is in charge of arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Franklyn Thornton
6 Entries
Joy Bunch
December 20, 2005
I met my husband's aunt, "Aunt Frankie" briefly, but was left with the impression of southern charm, wit, and humor. I wish I had the opportunity to spend more time with her, but maybe later!
Mamie Simonds
December 20, 2005
Aunt Frankie was a joy to be with, she was always so filled with love for her family and friends. Donald refers to her as his favorite aunt. With love,
Mamie
Kathy Bunch
December 20, 2005
I will always cherish the many memories I have of Aunt Frankie. The times at the farm - the coffee, cookies, and conversations. Family gatherings where Aunt Frankie would always poke at the icing on a cake when she thought no one was looking for a "taste". She was a woman of strong faith, which I always admired. I am thankful she was a part of my life for many years, and feel privileged to have known her. God Bless!
peggy fair edwards
December 19, 2005
with deepest sympathy
Louis & JoAnne Harris
December 19, 2005
I'me sure it was our loss not to have known Mrs. Thornton. But any sister of my dear friend, Myron, had to have been a wonderful person. We feel for you in your loss.
Lord & Stephens Funeral Homes Oglethorpe Chapel
December 19, 2005
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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