Stephen John Nicholas Thornton

Stephen John Nicholas Thornton, 68 of Ruffin NC, went home to be with the Lord Monday, November 29, 2021, surrounded by his family and pastor at Wesley Long Hospital in Greensboro.

A memorial service will be held at Hickory Grove United Methodist Church on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 12 PM with Rev. Lee Eggers Officiating.

Steve was born on December 17, 1952, in Christiansburg VA to the late John William Thornton and Barbara Lois Melin Thornton. He attended Somerville High School in Somerville, NJ and attended one year of college at Fort Lewis College in Durango, Colorado. He married Kimberly Ann Foland on March 31, 1991. Steve enjoyed having dogs, hunting, fishing, and working on his farm. He made his living as an over the road truck driver. Most of all he loved spending time with his family.

He is survived by his wife of 30 years Kim Thornton of Ruffin; children, Jason McDowell (Jenny) of Liberty, MO, Jessica Oakes (Benny) of Ruffin, NC, Greg Thornton (Nicole) of Gulfport MS, and Josh Thornton of Ruffin, NC; sister, Susan Eaton (Sean) of Perkasie, PA; grandchildren, Kiana, Hailey and Marcus McDowell, Morgan, Cody and Carter Oakes and Brayden Thornton; Uncle Jeff Melin (Sandy) along with numerous nieces, nephews, and a loving extended family.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hickory Grove United Methodist Church at 9983 NC 700, Pelham, NC 27311