Martha Thornton

Martha Thornton

Martha Ann Ailor Thornton peacefully entered the presence of her Lord on August 25, 2025, after a long battle with pancreatic cancer. She faced her illness with grace, courage, and unwavering faith, surrounded by the love of her devoted family. She is survived by her beloved husband of 55 years, William C. Thornton, Jr. "Bill"; and their children, William C. Thornton III "Carter" and wife, Mijin, Ann Brooke Bennett "Brooke" and husband, Mitch, and Mary Taylor Valentine and husband Austin; grandchildren, Djin Thornton, Sam Bennett, and Emily Bennett. Ann was born in Hampton, Virginia, on November 22, 1947. She graduated from Hampton High School in 1965 and earned her degree Magna Cum Laude from Longwood College in 1969. She dedicated her professional life to teaching elementary school and Sunday school. Her deep commitment to faith and service led her to serve on the Vestry at St. Mary's Episcopal Church in Goochland, where she also contributed to the Altar Guild. Ann's leadership extended to various organizations, including: Virginia Home (Board Member), VCU Massey Cancer Center Women & Wellness (Board Member), Garden Club of the Northern Neck, where she proudly served as President, Porch Lights Women's Ministry in Richmond, a ministry that was especially dear to her heart. She found joy in time spent on the water, boating with family and friends, and every opportunity for meaningful conversation-whether during lively gatherings or quiet moments on the back porch. She was known for her warm hospitality, love of entertaining, and her talent for making others feel welcomed and cared for. More than anything, Ann treasured her family. She found her greatest joy in being Bill's wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and walking faithfully with the Lord. She was deeply thankful for the many friendships that enriched her life, and the love and support she received throughout her journey. Her family extends heartfelt thanks to her nurses and caregivers, especially Dashae, Edna and Matesha, whose gentle care and compassion were a true blessing. Over the years, Ann created a beautiful life in each place she called home, including Virginia Beach (18 years), Nashville, Atlanta, Richmond, Goochland (20 years), and most recently, Weems in the Northern Neck. Her life was a reflection of kindness, strength, and grace-marked by her unwavering faith and deep love for those around her. She will be profoundly missed and forever remembered. A memorial service will be held on Thursday, August 28th at 11:30 a.m. at St. Mary's Episcopal Church, 12291 River Road, Richmond, Virginia 23238. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the following organizations in honor of Ann: Porch Lights, Inc. P.O. Box 18532 Richmond, Virginia 23226, www.porchlights.net, Garden Club of the Northern Neck Emily Wilkinson 2296 Suggetts Point Road, Warsaw, Virginia 22572 www.gcvirginia.org Please designate that the gift is for the GCNN Annual Fund in honor of Ann Thornton, Riverside Foundation, 701 Town Center Drive, Suite 1000, Newport News, Virginia 23606, donatenow.networkforgood.org/riverside Please designate that the gift is for the Hospice Fund in honor of Martha Ann Thornton.

Bennett Funeral Home

West Chapel