Johnie Rodell Thornton, 84, of Memphis, TN died Thursday, November 7, 2013 at his home. He was born July 13, 1929 to Nonnie and Cleve Thornton. Mr. Thornton had a successful career at Lilly Industrial Coatings where he worked as a traveling salesman. Johnie traveled all over the United States as well as others such as Honduras and Guatemala. He was extremely business savy and had a unique outlook on his methods which ultimately led to greatness. Johnie was an avid do-it-yourselfer, enjoyed anything outdoors, gardening, hunting, and fishing. He was the beacon of light in any room anywhere he went. Johnie enjoyed teaching and sharing experiences he had lived through and led by example to become an all around intelligent, hard working, wonderful human being. Mr. Thornton is survived by his wife of 64 wonderful years, Margaret Young Thornton; daughter, Rhonda Thornton; son Ronnie Thornton, Sr. (Denise); grandchildren, Ronnie Jr., Ryan (Patrice) and Ross; and two great-grandchildren, Steven and Peirce. He joins his parents and brothers Boot and Ray who are already with the Lord. Visitation will be 12-2 p.m., Monday, November 11, 2013 with services to follow at 2 p.m. at Forest Hill South Funeral Home. Interment will be in Forest Hill South Cemetery. The family requests that in lieu of flowers any memorials be sent to the Ronald McDonald House or St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.
Forest Hill South Funeral South (901) 346-3250