Frederick "Fred" Thornton

Born to the late Louis and Virginia Thornton, Fred is also preceded in death by his nephew, Rick Barnett.

Here to carry on his memory is his adoring wife of 58 years, Anita Thornton; their son John Frederick Thornton (Lisa); his grandchildren John Thornton, Daniel Thornton, and Levi Thornton; his sister Patricia Barnett; and his niece Becky Barnett.

Fred Thornton was a man defined by perseverance, determination, and a deep love for his family; standing out of the crowd for his vast intelligence and great sense of humor he brought joy to everyone around him. Born into a hard childhood, Fred faced obstacles early in life that would have held most people back—but instead, they shaped his resolve. With courage and ambition, at a very early age, he left home from South Bend to Louisville to attend technical school, setting the foundation for a life marked by hard work and achievement.

Fred married his sweetheart, and together they began their future. After graduating he landed a job working for NASA, on the Lunar Space Project. His work is seen today in the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, Huntsville Alabama, other distinguished projects was a “suggestion” where he helped the anti-radar system for the F-4 Phantoms, that not only saved lives during the Vietnam War but also earned him a financial award that helped him establish his young family. It was a source of pride that his work made a real difference in the world.

Never one to stand still, Fred moved across the country from Baltimore Maryland to Louisville KY, with his newlywed wife and infant son, and continued to work tirelessly. He spent his days at LG&E, where he built a long and steady career before retiring. His drive never faded, nor his entrepreneurial spirit, he worked nights building a successful real estate company, never using the money on himself but put his son through 12 years of private catholic education.

Beyond his accomplishments, Fred will be remembered for his wonderful sense of humor. He had a special gift for making others laugh, often allowing himself to be the center so everyone else could enjoy the moment. Every kid loved him, their laughter filled rooms, eased hard days, and brought people together.

Fred was a Third Degree Knight of Columbus, basketball coach, volunteered church-picnic, concession stand and school volunteer when needed, often using his electrician talents whenever needed. Of all his achievements, Fred considered his greatest to be his family, his loving wife till the end, his son John and Daughter-in-law whom he considered his daughter, but his world was his grandsons—John, Daniel, and Levi. He loved them deeply, and they loved him in return. His pride in them was unmistakable, and his legacy lives on in the wisdom of science, his love for animals, his values, laughter, and family love he passed down to them.

Fred Thornton’s life is a testament to overcoming adversity, serving others, and finding joy along the way. He will be remembered as a hardworking man, a devoted family member, and someone who made the world brighter through both his efforts and his humor.

A memorial visitation in Fred's honor will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025, from 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, at Arch L. Heady at Resthaven, 4400 Bardstown Road, Louisville, Kentucky, 40218. A funeral service in Fred's honor will be held on Saturday, December 27, 2025, at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, 5505 New Cut Road, Louisville, Ky 40214 at 10:00 AM.

Fred will be buried at Resthaven Memorial Park at a later date.