Bernice McDonald Thornton, 87, of Hernando, MS, passed away peacefully with family by her side on July 16, 2025. Bernice was born on June 17, 1938, in Sylacauga, AL to the late James Thomas McDonald and Queen Hudgins.

Bernice is survived by her loving husband of 69 years, James Thornton; her grandchildren Wes (Kristina) Luttrell of Hernando, MS, Shannon (Bradley) Morman of Quitman, AR, Cory (Crystal) Thornton of Santa Rosa Beach, FL and seven great grandchildren. Also survived by her sister, Alma Jean Smith of Talladega, AL, her brother, James Milton (Sandra) McDonald of Fort Worth, TX, and her sister Gail (Herbert) Melton of Brandon, MS.

In addition to her parents, Bernice was preceded in death by her sister, Kathryn Loucille Sanders, her brother Billy Charles McDonald, her daughter, Angela Kathryn Luttrell, and her son, Jimmy Ray Thornton.

In earlier years, Bernice enjoyed camping and boating with friends and traveling out west. She had a love for traditional western films, books, and TV shows. She cherished every moment spent with her family, children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren.

After years of battling health issues, the family finds comfort in knowing she is at peace and in the loving arms of her savior. Bernice will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be held Monday, July 21, 2025, at Goodman Oaks Church of Christ in Southaven, MS at 10am with the memorial service to follow at 11am. Burial will be at Forest Hill South Cemetery in Memphis, TN.