BLACKSHEAR — Donald “Donnie” Edward Thornton, Sr., was born in Waycross October 23, 1955. On Thursday, January 8, 2026, he passed away at his home in Blackshear, surrounded by those who loved him dearly.
Thornton was ax U.S. Army veteran who proudly served his country for 16 years. He was awarded a Bronze Star with Valor for his heroic actions during the Gulf War. He was a master mason for 25 years and was a member of Blackshear Lodge 270 and Hoboken Lodge 740, and previously served as Past Master at both
Thornton
lodges.
The funniest, smartest, and best-looking child of Christine Corley Bryant and Orvel Bryant, Thornton brightened the lives of those around him for 70 years. Although he was the favorite, Thornton was not the only child. He is survived by three siblings, Ronnie (Delores Dial) Thornton of Waycross, Gary (Peggy) Thornton of Waycross, and Gina (Willie) Bagley, who live in the booming metropolis of Bickley.
In 1975, Thornton made one of the best decisions of his life when he married Katherine “Kathy” McCall. These two were inseparable and would have celebrated their 51st anniversary in March. Kathy doted on her “studmuffin,” and he spoiled her daily. Their marriage was filled with love, laughter, and children — so many children/ grandchildren — who are fortunate to still have their “Mama”/”Mema” around to set them straight.
The couple had four children, Angelia (Lee) Haakenson of Jacksonville, Fla., Kristina (Carl) Renfroe of Blackshear, D.J. Thornton of Waycross, and Shane (Piper) Thornton of Blackshear. Thornton thought his kids were pretty special until he met his grandchildren. He was “Papa” to three grandsons, James (Alley) Thompson of Brunswick, Chase Lefevre of Blackshear, and Matthew Renfroe of Woodbine, Ga.
“Papa” also had two granddaughters whom he spoiled and raised as his own, Sofi Thornton (fiancé McCrae Stafford) and Emma Thornton (partner Cameron Symons). He also had five great grandchildren, Brody Varnedoe and Lucy and Lilly Thompson of Brunswick, and Rylee Symons and Holley Ann Symons of Waycross. He was uncle to two “special” nieces, Krystal “Tittle” Thornton of Sanford, Fla., and Presley Thornton (husband Herrin Manning) of Blackshear.
Thornton’s family expresses condolences to those who did not know him. Y’all really missed out.
A celebration of life ceremony will be held at 5 p.m. at the Blackshear Masonic Lodge, Friday January 16. Flowers can be sent to 3810 Doe Lane in Blackshear for delivery to the lodge. Casual attire is encouraged as Thornton was a chill guy who would want you to be comfortable while reminiscing about his excellence.
He often told his grandchildren his favorite color was padurple — it’s kind of like purple. The family asks that you wear colorful attire to honor this fun and vibrant man who meant so much to so many.
