Charles Monroe Thornton III

His Journey

Charles Thornton was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, to Charles and Esther Thornton. His childhood was grounded in faith as he worshipped with his family at Antioch Baptist Church. He was preceded in death by his parents and his younger brother, Harold.

After graduating from high school, Charles attended Winston-Salem State College, where he earned a bachelor's degree in History. He later moved to Detroit, Michigan, to begin his career as a teacher with Detroit Public Schools. He continued his education by earning a master's degree in Human Services from North Carolina A&T State University.

Charles was a dedicated public servant, a champion for civil rights, an avid reader, a student of history, and a lifelong learner. Although he drifted from his Christian faith for a season, like the prodigal son, he returned to the Lord on New Year's Eve in 1989. His renewed faith became the foundation of his life. He embraced numerous leadership roles within the church, serving as both a Deacon and an Elder at True Faith Church International while committing himself to a systematic study of Scripture.

His passion for strengthening the Body of Christ led him to author three books in the early 2000s: To Save Our Children, A Spiritual Survival Guide for the 21st Century, and Revelations Given to a Prodigal Son: Promoting Spiritual Growth Within the Christian Church.

Charles devoted 22 years of service to the Michigan Department of Human Services, where he retired as a Juvenile Justice Supervisor. Throughout his career, he was committed to advocating for children and families, ensuring they received the care and support they needed. His dedication to the profession also led him to present training workshops for the National Association of Black Social Workers.

Following retirement, Charles continued serving others by tutoring elementary school students, pursuing studies in urban ministry, and faithfully volunteering in the counseling and men's ministries at Christian Tabernacle Church in Southfield, Michigan, his church home for the last 15 years. In March of 2026, he moved to Columbia, Maryland to be closer to family.

Charles wholeheartedly believed that we are "Blessed to be a Blessing." He generously supported numerous charitable organizations, including Doctors Without Borders, and sought opportunities to make a positive difference in the lives of others.

Above all, Charles was a loving and devoted father, grandfather, uncle, and friend. He never forgot a birthday, anniversary, or special occasion, always making those he loved feel remembered and cherished. He was also a passionate sports fan who could often be found proudly wearing Detroit Lions, Pistons, or Tigers apparel.

Charles will be remembered for his unwavering faith in God, warm smile, infectious sense of humor, remarkable knowledge of history, generous spirit, and the genuine love he shared with everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Charles leaves to cherish his memory his children, Gregory Wright, Malika Curry, and Ahmed Thornton; his grandchildren, Dariahne Thornton, Justin Curry, Myles Curry, and Nia Curry; extended family members; and dear friends whose lives were enriched by his love, wisdom, steadfast faith, and enduring example of service to others.

A Memorial Gathering will be held for him at Harmony Hall in Columbia, Maryland on July 17, 2026 at 3pm. A Celebration of Life Service will be held at Christian Tabernacle Church in Southfield, Michigan on September 12, 2026 at 11:30am.