Thorwald Eros

Dr. Thorwald “T” Eros passed away peacefully at home on September 28, 2014, surrounded by his daughters. He was 88 years young. “T” was born in Tampa, FL on September 4, 1926, to Thorwald Eros, Sr. and Carlotta Wetherell Eros. He moved to Anniston, AL at the age of 10 where he attended elementary and high school. In 1944, he joined the U.S. Navy and was honorably discharged in 1946. After graduating from The University of Alabama in 1948, he enrolled in the Emory University School of Dentistry, graduating in 1952. He then earned a Master’s degree in Dental Science specializing in Orthodontics from the University of Southern California. In 1954, he began a 41 year private practice of Orthodontics in Atlanta. During this time, he also served as a part-time faculty member in Orthodontics at the Emory University School of Dentistry. His last 15 years of practice were spent in the Plastic Surgery Department at Emory Clinic as a member of their Craniofacial Team.

He was a member of Sigma Alpha Epsilon Fraternity, Psi Omega Dental Fraternity, and Omicron Kappa Upsilon Honorary Dental Fraternity. His professional memberships included being president of the Emory University Dental Alumni Assoc., president of the Fifth District Dental Society, secretary of the Northern District Dental Society, president of the GA Society of Dentistry for Children, Honorable Fellow of the GA Dental Assoc., Southern Assoc. of Orthodontists, American Assoc. of Orthodontists, and Diplomat of the American Board of Orthodontists. He was also a member of Northside United Methodist Church, Kiwanis Club of Atlanta, and a member of Atlanta Speech School Board of Directors. He served three years as the Chairman of the Speech School Board. He enjoyed his membership in the Capital City Club, The Piedmont Driving Club, and The Breakfast Club.

“T” was an avid sports fan, especially of GA Tech football and the Braves, but his faith, family and friends were his priority. He was a man of unwavering moral character and values. “T” was the epitome of a southern gentleman and had an unassuming charm. He was eternally optimistic and cheerful. For almost 58 years, he was a tireless and dedicated husband to his wife, Dorothy Belle Barge, who preceded him in 2008. He is survived by his two daughters, Kathryn Green (Henry), and Martee Barnes. He was affectionately called “Pops” by his five grandchildren, Spence Green, Richmond Green, Mary Bowden Green, Morgan Barnes (Aurie), and Maggie Barnes. The family would like to thank Jacqueline McClinton of McClinton Cares and the caregivers, Terrell Kinney, Steven Service, Earl Simmons, and Joe Williams who became like family to us. Their care and support improved the quality of life for our father.

On Thursday, October 2, 2014 there will be a Celebration of Life Service at 2 o’clock at Northside United Methodist Church with a reception afterwards in the Faith and Arts Center. The officiants are Dr. Gil Watson and Rev. Kelly S. Barge. In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Kiwanis Foundation of Atlanta, 100 Edgewood Ave. SE, Atlanta, GA, 30303 or Northside United Methodist Church-Missions, 2799 Northside Dr. NW, Atlanta, GA, 30305.