SEYMOUR
George’s first home was in the Sweet Owen community of Owen County, Kentucky. He was born to Franklin D. and Jean Watson Thornton on April 6, 1949 in Lexington, Kentucky. His education began at Owenton Grade School and continued through Owen County High School where he graduated in 1967.
An active participant in 4-H, George was a well-travelled youth. Many of his prize awards were trips, including a trip to Europe.
George was an athlete who loved sports. He played baseball and golf, but was most successful in football, which enabled him to secure a scholarship to Georgetown College in Kentucky. Unfortunately, due to a devastating accident and its resultant illness, a future football career became impossible.
Later attending the University of Kentucky, George was able to earn a Bachelor’s degree in General Studies. His love of knowledge was well known, and it was widely understood that George was not one to challenge to a game of Trivial Pursuit.
George accepted Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior and was baptized at a young age at Owenton Christian Church. He later attended First Baptist Church in Seymour, Indiana and finally made his church home at Cornerstone Community Church, also in Seymour. George passed on September 4, 2021 in Vincennes, Indiana.
George Russell Thornton is survived by his nephew, Anthony Thornton; nieces Clarissa (Wyle) Barz, Lauren (Jeff) Steinmetz, and Lisa (Chris) Droste; several great-nieces and great-nephews; his aunt, Ruth (William) Bateman and his uncle, Louis (Patricia) Thornton; numerous cousins and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Jean Thornton; his brother David (Becky) Thornton; his grandparents Garnett and Hallie Thornton and Vernon and Pearl Watson; as well as his beloved friend Susan McIntosh.
Memorials may be made to Mental Health America of Jackson County or National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
A memorial was held on September 6, 2021 at Cornerstone Community Church. Graveside service will take place in Owen County at a time to be determined. 2019VossSons.jpg