Sally Annette Thornton

Sally Annette Thornton, 82, of Columbia, MO passed away July 1, 2021, at Boone Hospital Center. Sally was born in Dodge City, KS on October 7, 1938. She was the daughter of Herman Kenneth Dugan and Mary Elizabeth (Cole) Dugan. The family moved to Joplin, MO. Later the family moved to Columbia, MO. Sally graduated from Hickman High School in 1956.

In July 1957 Sally married William (Bill) Thornton. They had three children (William Jr., Sherri, and Lisa).

Sally held a variety of retail positions and completed her career working for Columbia Public Schools. Her passion and her focus however was her family. She adored her children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Sally had many friends, knowing no stranger. She and her husband Bill befriended many throughout their lives. She enjoyed Friday dinner and conversation with her friends. Sally also loved to travel and held fond memories of sunrise walks on the beach at Amelia Island, FL. Perhaps it was her interest in lighthouses that led her to the beach.

Sally is survived by her son, William (Bill) Thornton (Cathy) and daughter, Lisa Bradley (Matt); grandchildren, Chris Thornton (Samantha), Bennet, Hayden, and Becket Bradley; great grandchildren, Anderson, Savannah, and Maverick Thornton. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, Bill, and daughter, Sherri.

Sally would not want you to mourn her death but to celebrate her life.

Love you GG!

Dry your tears, my friends, and raise your heads as the flowers

Raise their crowns to greet the dawn.

—Khalil Gibran

There will be a celebration of life. Announcement to follow.

Memorials suggested to The Food Bank for Central and Northeast Missouri.