John Thornton, Jr.

John (JT) Theodore Thornton Jr., was born February 21, 1956 in Detroit, Michigan to John Sr. and Lottie Crutcher Thornton. JT was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, 3 aunts, 3 uncles, 2 nephews and 1 niece. His siblings include four sisters: Barbara (James Hudgins),  Bettye,  Bertha, and Rosie.

After graduating high school, JT joined the US Navy. After leaving the Navy with an honorable discharge, he worked at ComEd in Chicago. JT was then transferred to ComEd in Peoria.  He left ComEd in Peoria and drove long-distance trucking for a while before being employed at Sharon Health Care Woods for 16 years. At Sharon Health Care Woods, JT was a Mental Health Counselor where he enjoyed working with the staff and patients. He often spoke of the rapport and bond he had with the patients and his admiration for his boss, Bobby Ford.

JT's hobbies included golfing, listening to Tupac and his Chicago sports. He was a diehard Cubs fan.

After knee surgery in Peoria, JT moved to Cedar Hill, Texas with his sister Rosie and to be closer to a VA hospital for further rehabilitation on his knee. He adapted well to his new environment but soon developed other issues with his mobility. In December 2019, JT was diagnosed with a terminal illness. On April 15, 2020, JT's fight was over. He was a strong and true soldier that fought hard. Although JT faced many challenges, he faced each one determined to “do it his way”. JT maintained a spirit of faith and a smile on his face.

JT will be deeply missed by his family and friends.  He leaves to cherish his memories: his sisters, nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, cousins, friends, and acquaintances along with special daughters, Misty and Iris and his special grandson, Cohl.

Special thanks to his Aunt Lanie for attending his 64th birthday celebration, his special bond with his brother from another mother, Andrew, his male aide, Alex and the visits from his friends, Ron and Charlie.

Brother you will forever be in our hearts we will always love and miss you, until we meet again, your sisters.

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