Thomas Edward Thornton Jr.

1949 - 2011

Thomas Edward Thornton Jr. obituary, 1949-2011, Milford, ME

BORN

1949

DIED

2011

FUNERAL HOME

Birmingham Funeral Home

438 Main Street

Old Town, Maine

Thomas Thornton Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Oct. 10, 2011.

Thomas E. Thornton, Jr.
Milford – Thomas E. Thornton, Jr., 61, died peacefully with courage and dignity at his home on October 8, 2011. He was surrounded with the love of his family. He was born on November 2, 1949, the beloved first son of Thomas Sr. and Gloria (Michaud) Thornton.
He graduated as class president from Old Town High School in 1968. While there he met and eventually married his high school sweetheart, Brenda Yerxa. They shared forty wonderful years of marriage and friendship. Tom's love of community led him down many paths. He was a past president and Paul Harris recipient of the Old Town Rotary Club. He served on the Small Business Administration, the Katahdin Area Council of Boy Scouts and the Maine Rural Development Authority. He was a trustee of Husson University and on the Board of Directors of Machias Savings Bank.
Tom was a true entrepreneur. His start in business was at Thorntons' Amoco and Interstate Batteries, where he formed many lasting friendships. His proudest accomplishment was being President of Freightliner of Maine and working with his children to form a family business. He measured his success by the many dedicated employees who became his "Freightliner family". Many of his business ventures were shared with his loyal partners and friends Jack, Joe, Bernie and Charlie.
Tom had a great love of nature. He felt most at home spending time "Upta Camp". He had the privilege of operating Nugent's Camps on the Allagash Waterway for three years with family and partners Stella and Rob. Many happy hours were spent out in his workshop "puttering" on his latest project. He was a wonderful husband and a great father to his three children. He will always be remembered for his sense of patriotism, his love of community and his quick wit. His stories and jokes will be missed at many gatherings of family and friends.
In addition to his mother, Gloria and wife, Brenda, he is survived by three children and their spouses; Nicole Madden and her husband Derek, Toby Thornton and his wife Melanie, and Lee Thornton and his wife Julie. He was a proud Papa to Justin, Chase and soon to be born, Ford Thomas. He is also survived by three brothers; Peter and his wife Chris, Michael and his wife Ann, and David and his wife Kim. He was Uncle Tommy to Whitney and Shane, Kate and David, Michele and Doug, Rachel and Eric, Daniel and Ashley, Josh and Kelsey, Richard and Gloria, Meghan, Brittany and Jeff, and Raekel and Freddie. His nieces and nephews gave him many great-nieces and great-nephews whom he loved dearly.
He was predeceased by his father, Thomas E. Thornton, Sr., his mother-in-law and father-in-law Dorothy and Maynard Yerxa, and brother-in-law, Stanley Yerxa. He was a great son, brother, husband, father, Papa, uncle, cousin, and a friend to all.
A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated at 1pm on Friday, Oct. 14, at Holy Family Church, 429 Main St., Old Town. All are invited to a light luncheon following the service at the Knights of Columbus Hall, 5 Gilman Falls Ave., Old Town. The burial will be private at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that any charitable donations in Thomas' honor, be made to the Maine Youth Fish and Game Association c/o William Osborne, Treasurer, 1242 Essex St., Bangor, ME 04401. Notes of Condolences may be made at www.birminghamfuneralhome.com

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Memories and Condolences
for Thomas Thornton

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November 14, 2011

Gary Savignano

I did not know Tom as long as many others but feel fortunate to have had the opportunity to get to know him while working on the 100th anniversary "Wing Ding" for the Boy Scouts! Tommy was a true Maine classic. My sympathies to your family at this time.

November 11, 2011

natasha sala

I am the daughter of Vern and Karen Cunningham
I am truly and deeply sorry for your loss. Some of my favorite childhood memories are snow mobiling and ice fishing at camp with Tommy, you, and kids. I will always cherish these memories forever. Even though I live far away, my thoughts are with you and your family. Stay strong and hang in there.

October 18, 2011

It seems like yesterday that Tommy was opening holes in opposing defensive lines while playing guard on the OTHS football team.
RIP my man- you are gone but not forgotten.
Randy

October 18, 2011

Penny Plourde

Tom's Family, we met while serving on the SBA Advisory board. We were the subcommittee that annually chose the Small Business winners from Maine to National.It was serious business and Tom took to the challenge like a fish to water. He respected these emerging businesses, remembering his humble beginnings, he praised the honorees with good wishes and energized them. He always had the same word of advise "be happy in your life." I feel Tom was happy. I miss his smile and laughter. May you all be comforted in the knowledge that Tom was loved by many.

October 18, 2011

John Miller

To Tom's family, I extend my deepest sympathy. I remember him as a terrific guy, talking with him at the truck dealership about fishing and his outboard motors. He loaned me his pickup to go for a Dysarts breakfast many times while my truck was repaired.. One time I took his pickup to a town near Ellsworth to pick up my new cocker spaniel puppy, Maggie. Over the years, Mag and I stopped to see the girls and Tom. They loved her and Tom would pick her up and hug her. Of course many treats were enjoyed. My prayers are with all of you-God bless you John Miller Chapman, Maine

October 17, 2011

Waneta Archer

Dearest Brenda and Family,
Words cannot describe the deep sadness we at Freightliner of Maine, feel for the loss of such a wonderful husband, father, son, friend, boss and so much more. Our thoughts and prayers go out to each of you in this time of sorrow. Tom was a wonderful person!
We the people at Freightliner lost not only a great President, but also a great leader and an inspiration to each and everyone of us. Tom's passing will leave a void in all our lives and in the hearts of all that knew him, both from a personal and professional standpoint.
People always say that the mark of a man is what he leaves behind, but we had the great privilege to see Tom's mark through every interaction we had with him. He lived his life with a mighty and powerful spirit and took every opportunity to show his respect to others. The love he had for his family, friends and community came though in every word he spoke.
Even in death, we all share a great admiration for Tom and he will always remain very alive in our memories. Tom Thornton, a great man that will be missed!
May he rest in eternal peace.

October 17, 2011

Cindy Frost

Brenda and family,
It was an honor to meet Tom and your family. The manner in which he lived his life is an inspiration to many. Please accept my sincere condolences.

October 16, 2011

Cliff, Sue, & Kimberly

Peter, Chris, and Family,
We are so very sorry for the loss you have had with Tom passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the rest of the family. Love,

October 16, 2011

Gary Greenleaf

To Brenda and family. So sorry on hearing of Tommy's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

October 16, 2011

Jim and Launna Baal

Tom will be greatly missed. We will miss his personality, generousity, words of wisdom and sense of humor. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.

October 16, 2011

Audrey (Dunn) Wilson

Brenda and family, I didn't get a chance to speak with you after the funeral. I spoke to one of your sons. God Bless you and comfort you through this most painfull time and be with you always. There are no words I can say to make things better but you will long be in my thoughts and prayers.

October 15, 2011

Brenda and family, so sorry to hear of your loss. We are so far away (Florida) but our thoughts and prayers go out to all of you at this time. Dave and Linda Parady, Summerfield, Florida.

October 15, 2011

Nancy St. Louis

If the wealth of a man can be measured in friends, then Tom was rich.
So sorry Brenda for your loss.

October 15, 2011

To the Thornton Family - We were deeply saddened to read of Tom's passing - much too soon! Our thoughts and prayers are with your entire family. His lost will be felt by many and the impact he has had on others will live on. We were blessed to meet Tom when he came to the Millinocket area after purchasing Nugent camp. We enjoyed our visits when he stopped to do his shopping on his way to camp. Our hearts are breaking for all of you and for the community to which he contributed so much. Cherish your memories of special times spent together and share them with others because he will live on in your hearts and the hearts of all whose life he touched. Our deepest smypathy to all. Alan & Linda Pangburn (Pangburn Family IGA in Millinocket, Maine)

October 15, 2011

Brenda,

Although we didn't know Tommy very well, that didn't stop us from forming an instant kinship. We had the pleasure of his and your company, at many Rotary and civic functions.

Tom was very generous to us in that he invited us to use and enjoy his camp on "Brandy Pond". We camped there on many occasions with our grandchildren, Isabel and Jack, and we really did enjoy it.

Tom was a man of many facets and we're sorry for not having gotten to know more of them. Tom was one of those folks who make you a better person just for having known them.

His passing was an expected occurrence but a shocking tragedy at the same time.

Marianne and I wish you, your family and all who knew him our heartfelt sorrow at his passing....hopefully he is in a better place and is at peace!

with our most sincere condolences,
Peter and Marianne Pierfederici

October 15, 2011

Brenda Thibeault

We are both so saddened by Tommy's death. Toby and Melanie, our thoughts and prayers are with both of you and your family. Much love, Uncle Jimmy and Aunt Brenda

October 15, 2011

George and Alex Wildey

What a beautiful service on Friday to honor Tom. A man of dignity with a positive attitude on life. He represented the best in Christian living. Always available to help others. He will be missed by all who knew him.
Our condolences to all the family.
George and Alexandra Wildey

October 15, 2011

Ski Winter

Dear Thorton Family, Tom was always so gracious to me as a friend on Cold Stream Pond. I loved seeing his refurbished water crafts going down the lake and seeing him fish for salmon every evening. He will be missed by us at Cold Stream Pond.

Ski & Suzie Winter
Jemison, Alabama

Posted by Ski Winter

October 15, 2011

I only met Tom last year, however he was the kind of person that if he had it and you needed it, it was yours to use. Many times he loaned us things in the North Woods. He will surely be missed. My thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family. His visits to the Senator Motel will also be missed. Rob Kishbaugh (Wapwallopen, PA)

October 15, 2011

Linda and Phil Northrop

Brenda, Gloria and family.Our hearts are filled with sadness. We pray you find strength and comfort each day in the love of family and the warm embrace of friends.... Our deepest sympathies

October 14, 2011

Paul Bernier

For the short time I knew Tom you know you was in the presence of greatness,There is no other way to describe him. My wife who also just passed ,I think said it best.She told me goodness radiated from Tom.I will miss him.My thoughts and prayers go out to Toms family.
Paul Bernier

October 14, 2011

Nola Connors

To Brenda, Nicole, Derek, Toby and Lee, On my way home today, I thought that the best thing that I can do to honor Tom is to try to live up to his ideals every day. He truly did make every person he met feel special and I will miss not being called Nola Jean again. Bill and I send our love to you all.

October 14, 2011

John Martin

Tom Thornton's passing is a hard blow to all of us who knew and loved him during his wonderful life. Special condolences to Brenda and to all of Tom's family at this sad time.

Tommy was my friend from those first-grade days at St. Joseph's School, through OTHS and for all the years since. The warmth of his personality made everyone who met him feel better about life.

Our high school class of 1968 was blessed to have Tom as our President. He was not only the face of our group, but also its heart and soul. His always-youthful sparkle and wit at our many Class reunions brought us all together again as we had been in those high school days.

The Penobscot Times article on Tom's life and passing was beautifully done, and paid well-earned tribute to an uncommon man who in so many ways was a shining light in the Old Town/Mifford area and far beyond. Throughout his life..Tom's business accomplishments were a lasting example of hard work, creative ideas, boldness and above all, the right path to serve a community and use his talents in a caring way. He was above all a success at life.

Our lives and community have been greatly enriched by the presence of Tom Thornton for these 61 years. May the knowledge of all the good he did and the people he touched be a source of comfort for Tom's family and so many friends. He's looking down on us now with his smile that lit up so many days.

We'll miss him, but we'll always celebrate his life and memory..

John R. Martin
Class of 1968

October 14, 2011

Brenda, Nicole, Tobby, Lee so sorry to hear about Tom, we was good friends thru the years. Roger Gifford

October 14, 2011

Jess & Tom Chenette

We are so sorry to hear of your loss of such a great man. The Thornton Family will be in our thoughts and prayers. Please take care.

October 14, 2011

Tom was a wonderful man and will be missed greatly by us all. We are blessed and honored to be a part of his Freightliner family. Thanks Tom for all that you have done for us. We are better people for having known you and your family.
Tim & Ellen Warren

October 14, 2011

Gloria, Brenda and Family, You are all in our thoughts and prayers during this very sad time. Such a wonderful man and family. He will be remembered forever.
Randy and Jill Rand

October 14, 2011

We're thinking of you and your family, Nicole. I never had the pleasure of meeting your dad, but I often hear he was a wonderful man.
God Bless,
Billy Connors and family

October 14, 2011

Bruce Morin

I remember at Tom's age of seven and mine of eight sleeping out in a camp at his home on sunset drive, of attending school together, of many Friday night snowmobile rides, several snowmobiling trips at his Brandy camp, trips to Canada to the snowmobile races, a strong loyal business relationship and hours of discussion over our joint interest in the history of the 39 Tannery all of which I will never forget. Nancy and I send our deepest condolences.

October 14, 2011

Robert Curtis

I remember him from when he was my bus driver on spring bridge road in greenbush! He was always their for everyone and will be missed by all! Best wishs for his family thru these hard times!
Bob Curtis

October 13, 2011

MARY BRAUN

Posted by MARY BRAUN

October 13, 2011

Tim & Lisa Rice

Our thaughts are with the family of Tom, He was a great boss who always knew your name had a kind smile, cheerfull hello and a word of wisdom. He will be greatly missed. Thanks Tom for the advice you have given me to make me a better person. God Bless you on your new journey.

October 13, 2011

Karen Sponaugle

To all the Thornton family but those I know best Gloria, Brenda and Ann, know our thoughts and warm hugs are sent your way since we are unable to attend in person. You were a neighbor who always waved, a high school friend, And a former boss who is always there when others went through what you are now. I'm so sorry I am unable to give you a warm heart felt embrace at your time of great sorrow. Fondest memories, Karen Girouard/Cuarisma/Sponaugle along with Alice White.

October 13, 2011

Anne Nichols-Doody

A fine gentleman I was proud to have known and worked for; much love to his family.

October 13, 2011

Kevin & Nycole McGlauflin & Family

With heartfelt condolences to the entire Thornton family. I had the privilege to visit with Tommy just a few weeks ago with Tim Beaulieu and Ronnie Treat. We talked of poitics, current events, and the north Maine woods he loved so much. As we were leaving he told us that he would be waiting on the big porch for us. For all who knew Tom this is no surprise. It makes perfect sense for him to get there ahead of us so he can coordinate the bunking assingments for the rest of us. Tom you touched the lives of countless people. You will be deeply missed.

October 13, 2011

RAY & MARY SISCO

HE WAS OUR TRUE FRIEND AND WE WILL NEVER FORGET HIM.

October 13, 2011

Bill Rogers

I'm going to miss Tom, he was always very cheerful person to be around with a smile for everyone. He was a great and understanding boss. He will be missed, he and his family will be in my prayers.

October 13, 2011

Sue Trafton

Your friends @ Husson Dining will sadly miss you.

October 13, 2011

Our hearts and prayers go out to all of the family. We will forever remember his kindness and smiling face. Although too soon, God picked a perfect angel to watch over the rest of us.
Love, Alice Harrington & Dick Bond

October 13, 2011

Our thoughts are with you and your family, my niece Joanne Ellis has been keeping us updated so we know that Tom was busy with his museum and friends up until the end. Leigh and Samol Cowing (Spring Hill, FL)

October 13, 2011

Marlene Pond Scholl

Gloria, Brenda and Family, I was so sorry to read of the loss of such a great human being. Tommy was one in a million. My thoughts and prayers are with you. Marlene Pond Scholl

October 13, 2011

John Richardson

The Thornton family has our sincerest sympathies with the untimely loss of Tom. We are so glad he had time to enjoy Nugent's Camps and Chamberlain Lake and we know that part of his spirit will sit on Miller Camp porch enjoying those sunsets for eternity. We did not know Tom well but we are sure he faced his fate with grace, humility and courage, trying to make it easier especially for his family, but also his friends, Freightliner and Nugent's Camps as well.

Keep each other close and never let go.

John and Regina (Reggie)
Formerly Nugent's, now McNally's Camps

October 12, 2011

Nancy Boucher Bender

Our huge family was truly blessed to have Tommy. He was not only a pillar of the community but a pillar of the Lavoie, St. Pierre family. Notre cher cousine you will always live in our hearts.

October 12, 2011

Alyson Veilleux

Thinking of you all, he truly was a great man, you all know this so very well. He was a true family man with the biggest smile for all. You're in our thoughts and prayers.

October 12, 2011

Alyson Veilleux

October 12, 2011

billie ketch

thought's and prayer's go out to the whole Thornton family..Melainaie,Toby and Justin so sorry for your loss you are all in my thought's and prayer's..i've heard many great thing's about Tommy Thornton but never got the privilage to meet him...god bless all his family...

October 12, 2011

sharon porter

Brenda and Family, My sincere condolences to you and all those who loved Tom. He will live in our hearts forever.

October 12, 2011

Kevin Holmes

Brenda, my sincere condolences to you and your family. I not only lost a Business Colleague, but a great Friend.

October 12, 2011

Donna Guerrette

So very sorry for your loss. May peace and love be with you and your family during this time of sadness.
Sincerely,
~Roger & Donna Guerrette~

October 12, 2011

Amy Goodie

Toby and family,
I'm so sorry to hear of the loss of your father. It's hard to let a good man go. Just remember he is in your heart, your memories and will always be looking over you.

October 12, 2011

Paula & Bob

It brings great sorrow to learn of Tom's passing. Our hearts go out to Brenda and family. RIP Prez.

October 12, 2011

To Gloria, Brenda, Toby, Lee & Nicky.
We pray that you all find comfort in the fact that Tom is in a better place, at peace & we will all be together someday. He lives on through you, your children & grandchildren. We share in your grief as we loved Tom very much as we love all of you.

Tim & Rosemarie Caldwell

October 12, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

October 12, 2011

I will miss you Tom. Thanks for putting me onto the 20" Brook Trout I will never forget catching them or the smile on your face after they were caught. You have a great family and my thoughts and prayers go out to them. Patrick McGowan

October 12, 2011

Shannon Sapiel

My sincere condolences to the Thornton family. Tommy was a great guy who was taken too soon. "When I Die-Give what's left of me away to children and old men that want to die. And if you need to cry, cry for your brother walking the street beside you. And when you need me, put your arms around anyone and give them what you need to give me. Look for me in the people I've known or loved. Love doesn't die, people do. So when all that's left of me is love, give me away. I'll see you at home."

October 12, 2011

Fred & Debbie Donahue

To the Thornton family, We are sorry for your loss. The way Tom lived his life is an inspiration to all of us. I'm proud to be a part of Freightliner of Maine.
With Prayers, Fred & Debbie Donahue

October 12, 2011

Jennifer Weisheit

Dear Aunt Gloria, Brenda and family,
One only hopes in this life that we could aspire to leave a legacy that would have left one little corner of this world a better place, but Tom left even more, and in those corners he changed one will miss most his presence in them. Tom you were always so kind to me, and the clients. Thank You for touching our lives.

October 12, 2011

Randy & Julie Madden

To the whole Thornton family. Please know that we are so sorry. You have been in our thoughts and prayers since the beginning. Tommy was such a special man and will be missed so much by so many. He is now your angel who will watch over you.

October 12, 2011

Dear Gloria and Family,
It is with a sadden heart that we learned of the passing of Tommy. We will always have fond memory of him working at the pines and good deeds he has done. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and the family.

Love, Fran & Don Parady and Jackie Crowley

October 12, 2011

Ann Lucas

To the entire Thornton family,,,,to a family i have envied as a whole,strong and loving family ...My thoughts and Prayers are with u at this time,,,,,and special thoughts to Gloria who has gave her all for her family, u are the most amazing women i have ever meet. Ann Lucas

October 12, 2011

Dwight Bragdon

Grief can be so hard, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one today and always.

October 12, 2011

Pam and Rob Dorr

Brenda and Family,
We are both so sorry to hear of Tommy's passing. He was a very special person and will be missed by so many. Our sympathy goes out to all of you at this time of sorrow, but his memory will live on in so many different ways.

October 12, 2011

Clarence Skip michaud

words can't say what a loss we have not haveing tommy in our lives. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family during there time of sorrow. I'll miss seeing tom at camp and on the Telos Road in passing but always stopping to see how the fishing is or how the bird hunting went or juist to say hi.I guess Ill miss my friend.

October 12, 2011

Tom and Barbara Borja

Brenda and family,
I am so sorry to hear of Tom's passing. I will always remember Tom as having a smile on his face and a kind word for everyone. My deepest sympathy to you and your family. We will keep you in our thoughts and prayers.

October 12, 2011

Kevin & Wendy Baker

To Brenda & Family

Wendy & I would like to pass on our sympathies to you and your family.

October 12, 2011

Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Tom was a wonderful person he will be missed.

Mark Arterton
Meritor

October 12, 2011

L. Randa (Cornell) Koczera

Brenda and family,

The loss of Tommy brings a deep sadness to all those who knew him. May your memories of him help you through this difficult time.

In sincere sympathy,

October 12, 2011

Joyce Perry

Take comfort in knowing that now you have a special guardian angel to watch over you.

October 12, 2011

My sincere sympathy in the loss of your great husband & father. Your former neighbor and friend, Harriet P. Goodwin, No,
Conway, NH

October 12, 2011

Chris & Rick St. Louis

Words seem inadequate to express the sadness we feel. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family at this time of sorrow.

October 12, 2011

Sue Sibley Jodoin

Gloria, Brenda, & Family, what a shock to hear of Tommy's death, he was so young.....you will all be in my prayers......Sue Sibley Jodoin

October 11, 2011

jeffrey clewley

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

October 11, 2011

Bob and Ginny Holmes

Brenda and family,

Ginny and I are so sorry and saddened to hear about Tommy. Our memories of our times in Old Town included so many experiences with Tommy and you. Whether the Old Town Orono YMCA or the Rotary brought us together, times shared were filled with fun. Please know that our thoughts are with you all.

October 11, 2011

Ida Brooks Clarke

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

October 11, 2011

Dear Gloria

October 11, 2011

Dear Gloria,Brenda and Family, My sincere sympathy, our family has lost a very special person. God Bless You All. Dianne Doucette Leonard

October 11, 2011

Ed and Karen Delaware

Brenda and family,

We are so sorry to hear of your loss. Tommy was a great man who was an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be greatly missed.

October 11, 2011

Beverly Shirland-Estes

Thoughts and prayers to Tommys family, he was a great person and will be missed. I'm so sorry for your loss.

October 11, 2011

Gloria and family .I'm sorry to hear of Toms passing .I only knew him as a little boy .
Sympathy
Louise (Ramsey ) White Salem NH

October 11, 2011

Brenda and Family,
We were so sorry to hear about Tom's passing, he was a great guy. I am sure he will be missed by all who knew him. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
Michael & Sheila( Porter) Ranks

October 11, 2011

To Tom's many loved ones, my family and I want to send our love and prayers to you all. Tom was very special to our family and we will not forget him. God bless you all and keep you in His care. Gladys and Family

October 11, 2011

Donna and Roger Bond

Brenda, Nicole, Toby, Lee and family, we are so sorry and saddened by your loss. It's hard to understand sometimes why people are taken away from us. We hope you may find some comfort in knowing each of you were a very special part of his accomplished and well-lived life. On the days that your heart feels empty, allow it to fill with the many, many happy memories you have and this may help you find your smile again. When the Lord does call our loved one home, he leaves us this gift in exchange. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

October 11, 2011

Beverly King

Our sincere condolences to the entire Thornton family. Tommy was such a special person and will be missed by so many. Keep him in your hearts and he will never be far away. Love, Wayne & Beverly

October 11, 2011

Carolyn Brown Rash

RIP Tommy, our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Tommy Thornton Jr. God Bless and keep you all well and nourious you in your time of greef. The Brown Family of Old Town, Maine. and Tyler Texas.

October 11, 2011

Phil&Mary MacDonald

To the family of Tom Thornton ,my family and i are so sorry for your loss ,as a longtime employee of toms i was always struck by his downhome sincerity .Even when speaking at a large gathering of us guys in the shop i always felt as though he was speaking directly to me .with the upmost concern and honesty . I will truly miss his visits to the shop . It was an honor to know and work for him - Phil,mary MacDonald and family

October 11, 2011

Galen & Joyce Sanborn

Brenda & Family,
We are so sorry to hear of your loss.

October 11, 2011

Matt Redding

Brenda, Nicole, Toby, Lee and family, we are so saddened by your loss. I will remember Tommy most for his accomplishments as a great family man. He has set the bar high for what every man truly wants to be...a good husband, a good father and a good role model for all. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

October 11, 2011

don & deb perreault

our love and prayers are with you

October 11, 2011

Bob & Bonnie Myers

May your hearts soon be filled with wonderful memories of joyful times together as you celebrate a life well lived.

October 11, 2011

Brenda and family,
Our thoughts, prayers and condolences are with all of you. Heaven certainly has gained another angel to watch over us.
Tim Chenier and Cindy Phillips

October 11, 2011

Randy Crooker

Our thoughts and prayers go out to Tom's family. He was a kind and generous man and we will miss him greatly. May God's peace be yours until you see him again.
Randy and Melissa Crooker

October 11, 2011

Darlene (Crouch) Ezell

I have many fond memories of Tommy from my childhood - whether it be from driving my school bus or seeing him at the Pines restaurant while his mom cooked. I was very sad to hear about his death and my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.

October 11, 2011

Steve Barden

I only met Thomas last year at my niece's wedding to his son Lee. He was such a warm and gentle man. I am sure he will be sadly missed. My heart and thoughts go out to the entire family.

October 11, 2011

Linda Parks

My thoughts and Prayers are with the Thornton Family, He was a great Boss and Freind,

October 11, 2011

Ray Magee

My condolences to Tom's family. Ray Magee,VCC Irving Energy

October 11, 2011

John & Kathy Tweedie

Brenda, Nicole, Toby, Lee, Gloria, and families, we are so very sorry. Milford has lost a great man. Everyone will miss him very much. He always made us feel good about ourselves with a joke or story or just a smile. And the doughnuts at the snowmobile club were delicious! He was a real gentleman. Our very deepest condolences to you all.

October 11, 2011

Hal & Marjorie Rowe

Our thoughts and prayers are with you in your time of grief. May your memories bring you comfort.

October 11, 2011

Toby and Lee and all of your family.........my most sincere condolences to you all and my most heartfelt sympathies. I am so sorry for your loss......
Cyndy Libby

October 11, 2011

Cheryl (Dubay) Pieske

Gloria, Brenda, Peter, Chris, Michael and Ann, I was so sorry to hear of Tommy's illness and passing. My thoughts and prayers go out to all of you. May all of the wonderful memories you have of Tommy help to ease your sorrow. He was loved by so many.

October 11, 2011

Art Archer

Tom treated all of us here at Freightliner of Maine like brothers and sisters, not employees. He was always there for anyone who needed him. A finer man you will not find anywhere. We are truly going to miss him. Remember the good times. Our sincere condolences to all the Thornton family

Art and Eleanor Archer

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Make a Donation
in Thomas Thornton's name

Memorial Events
for Thomas Thornton

To offer your sympathy during this difficult time, you can now have memorial trees planted in a National Forest in memory of your loved one.

Funeral services provided by:

Birmingham Funeral Home

438 Main Street, Old Town, ME 04468

How to support Thomas's loved ones
Commemorate a cherished Veteran with a special tribute of Taps at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

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Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

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Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

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What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

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Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

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Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

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The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

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Ways to honor Thomas Thornton's life and legacy
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

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Obituary Templates

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

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Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

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How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

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