Thornton, Earl Claude

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Earl Claude Thornton, age 87, went to be with the Lord on Friday, June 19, 2020, at the Carilion Giles Community Hospital. He was born the son of the late Floyd Elby Thornton and Ida Pearl Thompson Thornton on October 21, 1932, in Killarney, WV.

Earl graduated from Stoco High School and was always excited for his reunions. He served in the U.S. Army and was a Korean War Veteran. After 38 years of dedicated service he retired from Appalachian Power. Earl was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great grandfather, and nephew. One of Earl’s favorite past times was tracing his family roots. Additionally, he loved playing music with his Crooked Road family at various venues. He was a member and worshiped at the Glen Lyn Church of Christ.

Earl was preceded in death by his loving wife of 51 years, Ella Jeanette Thornton; sister and brother-in-law, Clarabelle Lewis Waddell and Don Francis. Survivors include his sister, Margaret Thornton Francis; his son, Earl Steven Thornton and wife Melissa; two grandsons, Christopher Steven Thornton and wife Amy, and Jacob Cory Thornton; and his great grandson, Hunter Jackson Thornton. Also, Earl was loved by a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, special friends, a sister and brother-in-law Bobby and Darlene Gautier, and close friend, Dean Reed. Everyone that knew Earl knew that he loved to talk, loved to laugh, and loved his life. This was reflected by his high school quote, “I must keep talking whether I say anything or not.”

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, June 23, 2020, at the Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home Chapel in Peterstown, WV, with Minister Tony Reed officiating. Burial will follow at the Peterstown Cemetery in Rich Creek, VA. Visitation will be from 12:00 noon until time of services on Tuesday at the funeral home. Those wishing to attend the services are encouraged to wear a mask and practice social distancing. Online guestbook can be signed or condolences may be sent to the family at www.broyles-shrewsbury.com. Arrangements by Broyles-Shrewsbury Funeral Home, Peterstown, WV.