Raymond C. Thornton, age 87, passed away peacefully on Friday, December 14, 2018 at Redstone Village in Huntsville, AL. Ray was the devoted spouse of his high school sweetheart Suzanne M. (Joyce) Thornton for a happy 65 years. A kind and generous man, in raising his family, he was always encouraging adventures: kayaking, chess, tennis, poetry, stilts, theater and symphony performances and so much more. He was a gentleman who presented himself at his best and easily offered his beautiful, melodious voice with favorite songs for everyone to enjoy.
He supported his family with a career in Industrial Sales for Union Carbide. After retirement he stayed active with community college, volunteer organizations and golf.
He was predeceased by his parents, Merl Thornton and Clarabelle Northey, sister, Genevieve Stetor, and grandson, Leo Thornton.
He is survived by daughters, Amy (Charles) Wills and Nancy (Ona Kozar) Thornton; sons, Paul (Adina) Thornton and David (Catherine) Thornton; grandchildren, Ryan Wills, Eric Wills, Shauna (Matthew) Betz, Jack Thornton, Josephine Thornton, and Charlotte Thornton; and sister, Lois Welsh. He was beloved by many nieces and nephews who enjoyed his sense of humor and encouragement.
A memorial service will be held at 10 a.m. Wednesday, December 19, 2018 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, 13550 Chaney Thompson Rd SE, Huntsville, AL 35803.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a memorial donation to Lions Club International Foundation or Knights of Columbus, Huntsville AL chapter.
