Jonathan Thornton

Jonathan Thornton, 62, passed away peacefully on December 27, 2025. Born on March 31, 1963, Jonathan lived a life shaped by creativity, reflection, and deep connections to the people and passions he loved.

Jonathan cultivated a strong spiritual fellowship and found profound peace in the meditative space he sculpted within his garden—a personal sanctuary he lovingly shaped into a place of reflection and serenity. This space mirrored his inner life: thoughtful, intentional, and grounded.

Music was a constant presence in Jonathan’s life, accompanying his many joys and quiet moments alike. He was a devoted sports fan, faithfully following the New York Knicks and the New York Yankees. Jonathan also had a deep appreciation for style and self-expression, with a particular love for clothes, art, and especially mosaics. The beach held a special place in his heart, and he cherished time spent by the ocean, including travels to the Caribbean, where beauty, color, and calm came together in ways that spoke to his soul.

Jonathan is survived by his fiancée, Jackie de Groot, and her son, Ethan. He was a loving and devoted father to Ashley Castaldi and her husband, Cameron, and to Asia Englese and her husband, Joe. He was a cherished grandfather to Grace, who brought him immense pride and joy.

He was a beloved brother to Gregory E. Thornton Sr. and his partner, Lynn Jerome, and a devoted uncle to Krystal Watts-Thornton, Gregory Thornton Jr., and Robert Thornton. Jonathan’s memory lives on in the hearts of his grandnieces and grandnephews: Elijah Mack, Breyelle Watts, Kayliyah Watts, and Kairo Mendenhall, each of whom carries forward his legacy of love and presence.

A memorial visitation will be held at O. B. Davis Funeral Homes, Chapel B, located at 2326 Middle Country Road, Centereach, New York 11720, on January 4, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. Guests are kindly encouraged to carpool.

For those unable to attend in person, a live stream of the service will be available at:

https://client.tribucast.com/tcid/c25128698674505

The family is requesting that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to Hope House Ministries. Please click the link for memorial contributions.

Jonathan Thornton will be remembered for his gentle spirit, artistic eye, and the peaceful spaces—both physical and emotional—that he created for others. His presence remains a quiet, enduring light in the lives of all who knew and loved him.