Clifton Charlie Thornton Jr., age 89, of Columbia, Missouri passed away in his home on March 20, 2026 after a brief illness. He was born on October 3, 1936 in Fulton, Missouri a son of the late Clifton and Mary Finley Thornton.
Clifton graduated from Southern Boone County in Ashland, Missouri in 1954. After graduation he entered the Navy where he served from 1955-1958 in the Philippines. He married Patte Sue Bockhorst on September 27, 1958 in Hartsburg, Missouri.
Clifton worked as a driver for United Parcel Service, which he retired from after 32 years. Clifton loved mowing the yard, working in the garage and cars, but he loved spending time with his grandchildren the most.
Clifton is survived by his son, Mark Thornton (Pansy) of Richlands, North Carolina; a daughter, Melissa Hill (Dennis) of Wooldridge, Missouri; five grandchildren Shannon Westbury (Josh), Samantha Hoiokala (Don), Julia Petry (Terrence), Bryce Hill (Leah) and Kevin Scyoc (Connor) and several great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents Clifton was preceded in death by his daughter, Julia Thornton; brother Robert Thornton, sister Mary Crawford and grandsons, Shawn Scyoc and Josh Scyoc.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, March 31, 2026 at 11:00 at Memorial Funeral home in Columbia, Missouri with Pastor Tim Morris officiating. Friends and family may visit Tuesday, March 31, 2026 from 10:00 until the time of the funeral service at Memorial Funeral Home; 1217 Business Loop 70 West; Columbia, Missouri 65202
