William C. Thornburg Jr.

William C. (Bill) Thornburg, Jr., born March 8, 1932, was reborn Tuesday, September 10, 2013. Raised in the Avondale neighborhood in Chattanooga, Bill, also known as “Cornbread”, graduated from Central High School in 1950. While at Central, Bill was a three year baseball letterman and captained the 1950 team.

Following graduation, he served his country in the Korean Conflict. Upon his discharge from the U. S. Army in 1953, Bill enrolled at Samford University. Upon receiving his diploma, he taught in the Fairfield, Alabama School System. At the same time he served as Youth Director at First Baptist, Fairfield. In 1962-63 he served the church as Interim Pastor.

In 1968, he moved to Chattanooga and began a career in the Paint & Plaster Trade. At this time, he found his church home in Brainerd Hills Baptist. He faithfully served until his passing in roles including: Sunday School Teacher, RA Director and Deacon. He also spoke from the pulpit on many occasions and served as Interim Pastor at two churches in the 1970s.

From 1972 – 1979, he also worked at Eastern Airlines as a ticket agent. Upon his retirement, he continued to use his ministerial skills while employed by Chattanooga Funeral Home.

He was preceded in death by his parents, William C. and Edna Ashford Thornburg, Sr.

He is survived by his wife of 52 years, Madalyn Thornburg; son, Mike (Julie) Thornburg of Chattanooga; daughter, Amy (Barry) Clingan of Dallas, TX. His legacy includes six grandchildren, Caleb and Noah Thornburg, and Jacob (Morgan), Jordan, Jessie Kate and Joy Clingan; sister, Bobbie Holmes of Chattanooga; and several nieces and nephews.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 8 PM on Thursday, September 12, 2013 at the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home.

Funeral Services will be at 12 PM on Friday, September 13, 2013 at Brainerd Hills Baptist Church with Dr. C. Richard Mason and Pastor Barry Clingan officiating. Burial will follow at Chattanooga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers memorial donations may be made to Beyond Measure (6611 East Brainerd Road, Chattanooga, TN 37421).

Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory & Florist. 404 S. Moore Road, East Ridge, TN 37412.