Joseph Thornton, 92

August 29, 1932 – June 29, 2025

Lee/Pontotoc County Line-Joseph Thornton, a gentle man whose 92 year earthly pilgrimage was filled with hard work, great values, Godly living and the unconditional love of his children, grandchildren and great children and so many other friends and relatives, received the rewards of his strong faith in God on Sunday, June 29, 2025 from his Pontotoc Co. residence. Known by most as Joe, he was born on Aug. 29, 1932 in Aberdeen to the late Joe Nathan Thornton and Mrs. Thornton. A self employed farmer and truck driver, Mr. Thornton had great respect for the land and all outdoors and was a great steward of the land he farmed. Early in life, he played for the Verona Black Socks, a semi professional black baseball team which achieved regional and national recognition. He annually raised a master garden which supplied much of the food his family needed. Joe was an avid rabbit hunter. While he professed his faith in God at an early age, he was a beloved member of New Lebanon MB Church for many years. He was the widower of Ruth Hamilton Thornton, who died Oct. 16, 2004.

A service celebrating his life will be held at 1 PM Thursday, July 10, 2025 from the Sanctuary of New Lebanon MB Church on Coley Road, Tupelo with Pastor Billy Rainey and Bishop Hill officiating. Burial will follow in the Big Hill Methodist Church Cemetery on the Lee/Pontotoc Co. Line west of Tupelo. A time of visitation will begin at 11 AM on Thursday only at the New Lebanon MB Church.

He is survived by his children; Willie Sue Thornton of Tupelo, Stephanie Thornton of Plantersville, Randy Thornton of Pontotoc Co. and Ricky Thornton (Parker) of Tupelo; 10 grandchildren and 15 great grandchildren; two brothers, Samuel Thornton and Mitchell Thornton. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved wife of several decades, and a brother, Johnny Thornton.

Condolences may be posted on Joe’s obituary page at hollandfuneraldirectors.com. Holland Funeral Directors-Tupelo is honored to be serving the family (662 840 5000)

Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.

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Visitation

Thursday, July 10, 2025

11 AM – 1 PM

New Lebanon MB Church

Coley Rd. Tupelo, MS 38801

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Celebration of Life

Thursday, July 10, 2025

1 PM

New Lebanon MB Church

Coley Rd. Tupelo, MS 38801