Russell W. Thornton

Russell was born on April 14, 1930, in Springfield, the son of Lynn and Margaret (Owens) Thornton. He married Elizabeth O’Neal on December 12, 1951, in Springfield.

Russ proudly served his country in the U.S. Air Force, the Illinois National Guard, and the U.S. Army, serving in the Korean War. He was a member of the Springfield Ski and Boat Club and Springfield Elks Lodge #158. Russ enjoyed camping, boating, and traveling. Most importantly, Russ loved spending time with his family and his dog, Missy.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Frances Schleyhahn; and brother, Lynn Thornton. His grandson, David Clark III, passed away shortly after Russ on August 25, 2021.

Russell is survived by his wife, Elizabeth “Betty”; daughter, Gail (Ron) Thornton Gustin; son, Tim Thornton; foster-daughter, Shari Hall, all of Springfield; grandchildren, Josh (Jackie) Turasky of Rochester and Sommer Thornton of Springfield; granddaughter-in-law, Lisa Grant of Springfield; eight great-grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; brothers, Jim Thornton of Springfield, and Harry Thornton of Pawnee; and many nieces and nephews.

Funeral Ceremony: 11:30 a.m. on Tuesday, August 31, 2021, at Butler Funeral Home – Springfield, 900 S. Sixth St., Springfield, with Celebrant Judy Woerner officiating.

Burial will follow at Camp Butler National Cemetery with military honors provided by the Interveterans Burial Detail of Sangamon County and the Department of Defense.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 75817, Topeka, KS 66675-8517 or the Animal Protective League, 1001 Taintor Road, Springfield, IL 62702.