Donna Thornton
Bethalto |
Donna L. Thornton, 72, went to be with her Lord on Tuesday, January 2, 2024 at Alton Memorial Hospital in Alton, IL.
She was born on April 14, 1951 in Alton, IL the daughter of Fred and Selina (Gwillim) Wallace.
Donna married her best friend and the love of her life, Charles Thornton, on December 31, 1977 in Wood River. They raised two sons, Frank and Charlie, in Bethalto, where she enjoyed cheering at their sporting events and where she drove a school bus for 25 years.
Donna was a song leader and the secretary of Missionary Baptist Church in Wood River for many years. She was also a member of the Order of The Eastern Star and was named Worthy Matron twice.
She enjoyed bass fishing with Charles, and together they spent lots of happy days on the water and fished in many tournaments. Donna also enjoyed watching baseball games, stock car racing and going to the gun range.
Donna was a force to be reckoned with and had a fabulous sense of humor. She had the biggest heart and made sure that everyone she loved knew it and felt special. She always found meaningful gifts for her family, and her children and grandchildren were her pride and joy.
In addition to her husband, Charles; she is survived by two sons, Frank Pelan and Christina Howell, and Charles Thornton and Marina Mondragon; three sisters, Peggy Smith, Vera Masengale, and Ethel and David Felgar; six grandchildren; her dear friends, Gary and Cathy Churchman; and many other relatives and friends.
Donna is preceded in death by her parents; a brother, Fred Wallace Jr.; and two brothers-in-law, Frank Smith and Melvin Masengale.
A graveside service was held Friday, January 5, 2024, at 10:00 am at the Rose Lawn Memory Gardens, Bethalto, Illinois, with Pastor Terry McKinzie, officiating.
Elias, Kallall and Schaaf Funeral Home in Bethalto will oversee arrangements.
Online condolences and guestbook may be found at www.eliaskallalandschaaf.com.
Elias, Kallal & Schaaf Funeral Home
