JOHNSVILLE: Donald “Donnie” Thornton passed away at home surrounded by his loved ones on Friday, August 16, 2024. He was 69.
He was born in Mansfield on January 17, 1955 to parents Donald J. and Florence J. (Yarger) Thornton. As a lifelong resident of Johnsville he attended and graduated from Northmor High School with the class of 1973. He then went on to earn an Associate’s Degree in Business from North Central State College.
Despite being left a quadriplegic from a motorcycle accident when he was 22 years old, Donnie was known for his sense of humor and upbeat attitude. Prior to his accident, he worked as a mechanic at the 76 Truck Stop on State Route 97. He never let his accident slow him down, and later in life he manned a vegetable stand at State Route 314 and Steam Corners Road at the old general store, managed a dump truck hauling business with Charlie Spring, enjoyed buying and selling auctioned cars, and being the life of the party working as a DJ for parties and Karaoke.
In his spare time, Donnie enjoyed hosting his family during the holidays, especially Christmas and Halloween for trick or treating, joking with truckers over his CB radio- his handle being “The Crazy Cripple”- playing cards, and cracking jokes as much as possible. Donnie had a passion for all things mechanical especially cars; looking at cars, tinkering on cars, talking about cars, teaching about cars… especially classic models. His charisma was unparalleled to anyone’s, people were always drawn into him and his infectious laughter. Above all else though, he loved people and formed strong relationships with strangers, friends, and especially his family.
Donnie is survived by his daughters Jennifer (Troy) Keller and Amy (Kirk) Lohr both of Lexington, mother Florence J. Thornton of Johnsville, his devoted life partner Joanie Dickerson of Johnsville, daughters by choice Heather Shane of Delaware and Heidi (Jason) Neagles of Marion, brother Jeffery (Joyce) Thornton of Mansfield, sisters Lori Brewer of Johnsville, Shelley (Bill) Gall of Crestline, and Peggy (Willy) Wilcox of Lakeview, nine grandchildren, six great-grandchildren, best friend Charlie (Robin) Spring of Johnsville, devoted sister-in-law Debbie (Greg) Campbell, many beloved nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, as well as a plethora of compassionate caregivers.
He is preceded in death by his wife Bobbie Jeanne Thornton, father Donald Joseph Thornton, and brother-in-law Rollin Brewer.
Memorial contributions can be made at the funeral to Ohio CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).
The Thornton family will receive guests on Wednesday, August 21, 2024 from 1 pm to 3 pm in the Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home. A graveside service will follow at 3:30 pm in Shauck Cemetery. Pastor Steve Estep will speak. A celebration of Don’s life will follow the services at the Miller Barn (behind Rite Aid in Lexington) until approximately 8 pm. All are welcome to attend.
Snyder Funeral Homes is honored to serve Donnie’s family and encourage you to share a fond memory or message of condolence on his obituary page at www.SnyderFuneralHomes.com.
Funeral Home: Lexington Avenue Snyder Funeral Home
Website: www.snyderfuneralhomes.com