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BORN
1960
DIED
2014
FUNERAL HOME
Walter Thornton Obituary
July 16, 1960- July 6, 2014
Pascagoula
Walter M. "Waldo" Thornton, Jr., age 53 of Pascagoula passed away suddenly on Sunday, July 6, 2014 at his residence. He was born July 16, 1960 in Pascagoula to the late Walter Marion Thornton, Sr. and Doris Pepe Thornton. Waldo graduated in 1978 from Pascagoula High School where he was a standout defensive tackle. He was a member of the 1976 squad that won the State Championship. He was a lineman in 1978 for Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College in Perkingston, MS. In 1993, he received his Bachelor's Degree in Journalism and Coaching from University of South Mississippi. Waldo was co-owner of Thornton Bonding for 34 years and Tiki Restaurant in Gautier. He was a radio show host for Talk Radio WPMO 1580 in Pascagoula-Moss Point, WVGG 1440 AM in Lucedale, and numerous broadcasting in South Mississippi. He was a life time member of Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church in Pascagoula. Coach Thornton enjoyed being an assistant coach for Pascagoula and Moss Point Schools. He was on the Mississippi Phosphate Corporation Community Advisory Panel and recently Pascagoula Hall of Fame Committee Member. Waldo just completed his second book, "History Of Pascagoula Football" , that will soon be printed.
He is survived by his companion and wife of 8 years, Sherri Thornton, Pascagoula; loving brother, John "Thunder" Thornton, Pascagoula; two daughters, Marla Gardner (Justin), Madison, MS; Natalie Sandifer, Terry, MS; two granddaughters, Gracyn and Tyce Gardner; two aunts, Norma Thornton, Gautier and Chris Funk, Magazine, AR; brother-in-law, Terry Hodges (Jennie), Richland, MS; father-in-law, Kempe Hodges (Carol); two nephews, Orry and Matthew Hodges; numerous close cousins and devoted friends.
Funeral Mass will be Tuesday, July 8, 2014, 6:00pm, at Our Lady of Victories Catholic Church in Pascagoula with Father Tony Arguelles officiating. Visitation will be from 4:00-5:45pm at the church. Pallbearers will be Scott Sisson, Lewis Sims, John Tomes, Kevin Fant, Matt Cochran, Josh Bishop, Chad Coleman, Casey Gilbert, Derek Read, and Toben Dubose.
In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Pascagoula Quarterback Club or his church, Our Lady of Victories. You may watch a memorial video of Waldo or sign the online register at www.obryantokeefe.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Walter Thornton
KATHLEEN LECHNER
July 18, 2014
I was shocked when I found out. We are keeping You Sherri,Thunder,and the Thornton Family in our Prayers. I appreciate Your Friendship,Waldo. You stood by my side through thick and thin throughout the years. Such a Good,Dear Friend...Richard,Kathryn,Angela Marie,Thomas,and Victoria will always miss their "Uncle Waldo". +VAYA CON DIOS DEAREST FRIEND+
Chuck and Jennifer Jeffrey
July 14, 2014
You were one of the good guys, Waldo. You will be missed.
Ginger Allday-Johnson
July 10, 2014
With a heavy heart, I bid you farewell, Waldo. Forever in our hearts, You will never be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to Sherri, Thunder, and your children, family, and friends.
paul delcambre
July 9, 2014
Rest in heavenly peace my friend....you will be missed by all that crossed your path
Sandy Feathers (nee Smith)
July 8, 2014
Waldo and I graduated from PHS together. He was a super guy then and remained so during his adult life. I'm very sorry for his family's loss and our classmates' loss.
July 8, 2014
Walter was an asset to the community. His concern for the well being of his city, county, state and country was easy to see. He will be missed.
Ro bert M. & JoAnne Megginson
July 8, 2014
We are saddened to hear the news of Walter's passing. Our hearts , thoughts and prayers are with Sherri, Kempe, Carol and all of the Thornton Family during these times. May God continue to provide you with His comfort, peace and everlasting love in the days ahead.
July 8, 2014
Sweet Sherri and girls
So very sad to hear about Walter. Love you, miss you, and praying for you all. God bless you.
Cousin Franda
Houston, TX
Rosey
July 8, 2014
Sherri, I am here always!! He was a beautiful soul... Rosey
angela Robinson
July 8, 2014
R.I.P. Waldo. You will be forever loved and missed.
The Staff of O'Bryant-O'Keefe Funeral Home
July 8, 2014
Offering our deepest condolences during this difficult time.
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O'Bryant-O'Keefe Funeral Home - Pascagoula4811 Telephone Road, Pascagoula, MS 39567
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