George Thornton

April 6, 1949 - September 4, 2021

George’s first home was in the Sweet Owen community of Owen County, Kentucky, then Owenton, and adult life in Lexington, Kentucky and Seymour, Indiana.
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 and Cornerstone Community Church in Seymour.
George passed on September 4, 2021 at Willow Manor in Vincennes, Indiana. He is survived by his nephew, Anthony Thornton; nieces Clarissa (Wylie) Barz, Lauren (Jeff) Steinmetz, and Lisa (Chris) Droste; several great-nieces and great-nephews; Sister-in-law, Becky Riley Thornton Nickel; Aunt, Ruth Ann(William) Bateman and Uncle, Louis (Patricia) Thornton; numerous cousins and their families. He was preceded in death by his parents, Franklin and Jean Thornton; his brother David 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 Indiana,or National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
A memorial service was held on September 6, 2021 at Cornerstone Community Church in Seymour. Graveside service will take place at Owenton(Kentucky) Cemetery, Saturday, September 18, 11:30 AM.

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I met George many years ago when he first became a patient at the dental office I work for. I enjoyed visiting with him over the years and hearing about sports teams he was interested in. I didn't know about his personal history with sports until reading this. I can now see why his love for sports continued over many years. George was always such a kind man and will sure be missed.

Please accept our deepest condolences for your family's loss.