Howard Lee Thornton, 81, of Wallace left this life for his eternal rest on Tuesday, May 14, 2013 from Golden Care Rest Home.

Mr. Howard was born November 16, 1931 in Sampson County; the son of the late William Bernice and Ada Louise Thornton. He was also predeceased by his brother, Harvey Thornton and sister, Judy Lee.

Surviving to cherish his memories is his loving wife of 56 years, Lottie Rouse Thornton; his children, Kaye T. Woods (Jim) of Kenly, Gale T. Dixon, Rose T. Lanier (Pete), and Jeffery Thornton, all of Burgaw; grandchildren, Dawn Bradshaw, Amanda Lanier, Jessica Lanier, April Jobe and Douglas Jobe; great grandchildren, James Bradshaw, Ashley Bradshaw, Brandon Bradshaw, Isabella Cliffe, Anthony James DiCicco and Preston Jobe; brothers, Sherrill Thornton (Peggy) of Wallace, Glenn Ray Thornton (Marie) of Burgaw and Jimmy Thornton (Shirley) of Pin Hook; sisters, Louise Powell of Wilmington and Inez McClenny of Clinton; special nieces and caregivers, Nicole Boyd, Linda Malpass and Gloria Rivenbark, numerous nieces, nephews, and friends.

Memorial service will be 7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel with Pastor Ronald Jones officiating.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home until 9:00 pm.

Howard was a devoted husband and caring daddy, granddaddy, brother and uncle who loved his family dearly. With a heart of gold and generous spirit he was always ready to lend a helping hand wherever needed. Howard always made sure his family was well cared for, had plenty of food to eat and a place to lay their heads. When his health permitted, Howard enjoyed the simple things of life like fishing and gardening. He later enjoyed riding his motorized chair to carry candy and drinks to his friends at Golden Care along with carrying out the trash. Howard was a special man with a true spirit of love and giving of himself to others. He will surely be missed but precious memories will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

Howard's family would like to thank the entire staff at Golden Care for the love and compassionate care they have given to him and continue to give their mother who still resides there.

You may send condolences to the family at www.quinnmcgowen.com

Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home and Cremation Center of Wallace.




Memorial service will be 7:00 pm on Wednesday, May 15, 2013 at Quinn-McGowen Funeral Home Wallace Chapel.

The family will receive friends immediately following the service at the funeral home until 9:00 pm.