Donald Edward “Donnie” Thornton Sr., 70, passed away Wednesday, January 7, 2026, at his home in Blackshear, surrounded by those who loved him dearly.

He was

Thornton born in Waycross October 23, 1955. He was an 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. He was a member of Blackshear Lodge 270 and Hoboken Lodge 740 and previously served as Past Master at both lodges.

The funniest, smartest, and best-looking child of Christine Corley Bryant and Orvel Bryant, he brightened the lives of those around him for 70 years. Although he was the favorite, Donnie was not the only child. He is survived by three siblings: Ronnie (Delores Dial) Thornton and Gary (Peggy) Thornton, both of Waycross, and Gina (Willie) Bagley who lives in the booming metropolis of Bickley. In 1975, he 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.

Kathy and Donnie had four children: Angelia (Lee) Haakenson, Jacksonville, Florida; Kristina (Carl) Renfroe, Blackshear; D.J. Thornton, Waycross and Shane (Piper) Thornton, Blackshear. Donnie thought his kids were pretty spe cial, until he met his grandchildren. He was Papa to three grandsons: James (Alley) Thompson, Brunswick; Chase Lefevre, of Blackshear and Matthew Renfroe, Woodbine. 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, all of Brunswick and Rylee Symons and Holley Ann Symons, both of Waycross.

He was uncle to two “special” nieces: Krystal “Tittle” Thornton, Sanford, FL and Presley Thornton (husband Herrin Manning), Blackshear.

Donnie’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. Friday, January 16, at the Blackshear Masonic Lodge. Flowers can be sent to 3810 Doe Lane in Blackshear for delivery to the lodge. Casual attire is encouraged as Donnie was a chill guy who would want you to be comfortable while reminiscing about his excellence. Donnie often told his grandchildren that 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.

Family Placed Obituary Herbert Orvill Lee Sweat

Herbert Orvill Lee Sweat, 90, of Blackshear, passed away Wednesday afternoon, January 7, 2026, at Harborview Pierce County in Blackshear, following an extended illness.

Born September 21, 1935 in Blackshear, he was a son of the late Johnny Melvin and Maggie Irene Sweat. Living most of his life in Pierce County, he had worked as a farm laborer for Alvin Walker Sr. and G.A. Smith. He’d also worked a few years as a carpenter and was of the Pentecostal faith.

He was preceded in death by his long-time companion, Winnie Rowland.

Survivors include his companion, DeWanda Dixon, Blackshear; son, Orville Albert Sweat, Blackshear; two stepchildren, Wayne Rowland and Sue Rowland, both of Blackshear and several other relatives.

Memorialization was by cremation.

Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.

Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear was in charge of arrangements.