In loving memory of a remarkable man known by many names - Dex, Willie, Dexter, Mr. Willie, Knot, Shep, Bruh, Dad, Pappa, Granddad, General Pop. He responded to each of these nicknames and aliases with warm greeting and a radiant smile. Now Willie, greeting and smiling at angels in heavenly space.

Willie Dexter Thornton was born May 1st, 1956, to Fannie Maude and Roosevelt Thornton. Throughout his life, Maude ensured that Willie always felt the love of a dovoted mother. She instilled the importance of family, His stepfather, Clerence (Buster) Thornton, left in incredible impact on his life. Willie had one brother, Dwayne Cheney. Despite the years that seperated them due to Embry Riddle Aeronautical University- Daytona Beach, FL., military service (with Wayne serving in the Army), and living in different cities at different times, Bro and Wayne remained inseperable brothers and the best of friends.

Willie's life came full circle. A proud native of Athens, he met Ovita Davis in Daytona Beach, Florida. The emnbarked on a journey of love, marrying and residing in Philadelphia, Penn, before ultimately returning to Athens to care for their beloved family members. Willie was undoubtedly Ovita's cherished friend, companion, and soulmate. He took immerse pride ib his three sons -  Cory, Travis, and Kyle. He imparted to them the values of hard work and integrity, supporting their educational goals and encouraging their involvement in extracurricular activities. Although each of the boys possessed their unique qualities (forever known as the Thornton Boys), General Pop instilled in them from an early age the significance of nuturing a relationship with God.

A graduate of Clarke Central High School, class of 1974, Willie exhibited his musical talents by playing the saxophone and clarient. Prior to the onset of the COVID pandemic, he delighted audiences with his saxophone performances at special events. Dex had a eagerly anticipating his retirement from the University of Georgia as Building Service Supervisor at the end of 2023. Throughout his 67 years of life, he held various occupations, including a traveling photographer, machine operator at Campbell Soup Co. assistant she store manager, Athens Police Officer, child support investigator, Athens Banner Herald, and Del Mar supervisor. No task was too great or menial for Willie to devote his unwavering commitment.

From his youth, young Willie was nurtured in the Hill's First Baptist Church, and upon his return to Athens, the Thornton family joined New Grove Baptist Church in 1983 and later God's ministry calling lead Willie and Ovita to New Covenant Worship Center in 2002.

The Thornton's strongly believe that Willie knew the Goodness of God's promises and he was leaving his family in God's capable hands. "He" would care for the family left behind - Ovita, Dewayne, Cory, Tiffany, Travis, Terrance, Kyle, Dani, Teddy, Keyana, Nick, and Jaida.

May his soul rest in eternal peace, and may his memory forever remain etched in our hearts.