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BORN
1926
DIED
2018
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Robert Thornton Obituary
Tallahassee - Tallahassee - Robert Thornton, 91, originally of Philadelphia; residing in Tallahassee since 2008, peacefully passed away 10 pm Thursday January 18th 2018 in his sons home in the presence of family. Services will be held at St. Peters Anglican Church, 4784 Thomasville Rd., Tallahassee with a visitation from 12:30-1:30 pm, Tuesday, January 30th and a funeral service beginning at 2:00 pm. A reception follow in the Parish Hall.
Robert was an amazing father, grandfather, friend and citizen of the world. He was an active member of the church and loved god, loved country, loved people, loved animals and loved life itself. At the age of 18, in 1944, this courageous patriot gladly served as a steward and a cook aboard the USS Battleship New Jersey during World War II. He received the Philippine Liberation Ribbon and the World War II Victory Medal. After the war he worked for 35 years for the State of Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board (1950-1985). Before his retirement he had obtained the rank of General Manager (GM). He loved his job. Robert never married but always wanted and desired a family. To see that ambition through he adopted 2 children, Michael and David in 1972 and 1979. Mr. Thornton was the first single male in the state of Pennsylvania to be allowed to adopt a child. He raised both boys in Philadelphia; guiding them into manhood. After Robert retired from State of Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board he started and managed a business, renting apartments. He was an excellent landlord. Robert loved to cook and loved rummaging through the Philadelphia consignment/thrift shops. At age 82 Robert moved to Tallahassee (2008) and joined the congregation of St. Peters Anglican Church. As a new Tallahassean Robert loved going to the North Florida fair and the springtime Tallahassee. Parade.
Preceding him in death are his parents, Emma and Dudley Sr; seven siblings: Arthur, Dudley jr., Henry, Floyd, Marie, James, and Joseph. Also his niece,Niecy.
His many friends and family remember Robert as a kind-hearted "and" honest person. He had a vibrant personality and was beloved by many.
He is survived by his children Dr. Michael Thornton of Tallahassee FL, and David Thornton Sr. of Philadelphia PA; grandchildren, Candice Daniely, Brandon Thornton, David Thornton Jr., great-grandchildren, Keymir Hargrove, Marquis Polk, and Dayla Daniely; also his many beloved nephews and nieces, Patricia, Dwane, Marie, Cheryl, Donna, Gary, Gerald , Debbie, and Eric, He will be dearly missed by all. He will be dearly missed by all.
Robert will be laid to rest at Rolling Green Memorial Park 1008 W Chester Pike, West Chester, PA on Saturday February 3rd 2018 at 10 am. A small graveside service will be conducted with military honors. Lifesong (www.lifesongfunerals.com or 850.627.1111) is assisting the family with local arrangements.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Robert Thornton
Sponsored by Lifesong Funerals & Cremations - Quincy.
Ms. Deborah
February 3, 2018
David Jr, Candice, Marquis, Dayla, Keymir and family. I am deeply saddened by the news of your Pop Pop passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Elizabeth Mihalcik
February 2, 2018
We are thinking of you Michael through this journey. Your father was a very fine human being.
Dyanne Ayanna Iniko Brocco
February 2, 2018
My condolences to the Thornton family. Mr. Thornton was a special person who was loved by many. He was truly blessed. May he rest in peace.
Morty Poncz
February 2, 2018
To my friend Michael upon the lost of your father. Clearly the two of you had a mutual love relationship. Morty
Sam and Jill Ashoo
February 2, 2018
We are so sorry for the loss of your Dad. We will miss seeing Robert at the 5pm service. You took such good care of him, Michael. You two really loved each other well.
Alanne Rouse
February 2, 2018
Our Deepest Sympathy from the Rouse Family
(TQE Productions Youngstown, Ohio)
Derek Ray
February 2, 2018
Our sincere sympathy. Derek is so honored that you picked him to read a very special poem at the burial. You are a wonderful Son for keeping him in your care. I am sure that he will look over you in his external rest.
Derek and Cheryl
USS New Jersey Dad served aboard her
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
90th birthday
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
State Store Robert worked for them 35 years
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
The GM
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
1946 USS St Loius
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
1967
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
90th birthday party
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
At breakfest Chez Pieere
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
1944 off to war
Michael Thornton
February 2, 2018
Steven Haws
February 2, 2018
I am so sorry to learn of the passing of your beloved father who I first met over 40 years ago at S. Clement's-- he was Head of Ushers for many years and would go out of his way to help with anything that needed attention. He was a true and valued friend, a faithful and devout Christian who loved traditional Anglo-Catholic worship and the finer things in life, not least having raised you and David on his own. I shall always have fond memories of our working parties at church on Saturdays followed by breakfast or lunch at the former St George's Restaurant at 20th & Arch across from S. Clement's. May the Holy Angels watch over him and may he forever Rest in Peace and rise in Glory.
Denise Colter
January 31, 2018
To Michael and David:We were so sorry to hear about the loss of your father. He was such a lovely man. You and your families will be in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.
Tabatha Ford
January 31, 2018
Dr. Thorton,
My thoughts are with you and your family during this time of losing your father.
ELDER JOE COLSON, JR AND FAMILY
January 31, 2018
PRAYER ARE WITH YOU'LL!
Riley
January 30, 2018
I am so sorry for your loss. It is Gods will and ability to provide comfort and strength when we need it most. May you find comfort in knowing that he cares for us when we are broken hearted. Jeremiah 29:11,12
Cheryl Angela Wood
January 27, 2018
Thanking you for all the kindness and love you showed towards me when I was growing up, Uncle. I will always remember having fun at many cookouts and dinners at your home or our home, in Mt. Airy. You always brought fresh foods from South St. They called it the "Italian Market'" back in the 70's.
It is awesome that you took David and Michael into your heart and home. You took good care of them and you tried your best with Uncle Arthur, also. I am praying for you, Dr.Thornton, David,his wife,and the grandchildren.
Uncle Robert helped many people!
May he rest in the Lord's peace and perfect power!
Michael Thornton
January 25, 2018
My beloved father may he rest in eternal peace.
Michael Thornton
January 25, 2018
My dear beloved father..may he rest in eternal peace.
Michael Thornton
January 25, 2018
My Dear Beloved Father...may he rest in eternal peace.
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