Eddie D. Thornton

We mourn the loss of Eddie Thornton, who was born on September 8, 1948, in San Saba, Texas to S.E. "Ed" Thornton & Carra Ollene Thornton. He passed away on February 2, 2025. He is survived by his spouse, Phyllis Wesson Thornton.

Eddie leaves behind a legacy of love, support & encouragement. He was a loving father to Daryl (Marie) Thornton, Cheryl Thornton, Sara (David) Ruckstuhl, Ben (Natalie) Jackson & Nikki Hudson. He was also a proud grandfather to not only his grandchild but to all of his extended grandchildren & greatgrandchild: Riley Thornton, Leif Ruckstuhl, Aberdeen Ruckstuhl, Milo Ruckstuhl, Slaid Ruckstuhl, Hudson (Tommy) McGreevy, Goodwin Bell, Townsen Bell, Culberson Bell, Stockton Bell, and Freddy McGreevy.

He was preceded in death by his parents, his brother, Ron Thornton, his first wife, Margaret Spinn, and his second wife, Barbara Jackson.

Eddie attended Goldthwaite High School and graduated in 1967. It was here that he found his love for sports, FFA, and the outdoors. He went on to pursue a BBA at the University of Texas in Austin, graduating in 1971. Before graduating he married his first wife, Margaret, and they had two children, Daryl and Cheryl. He was dedicated to his career in the food service distribution industry starting at White Swan. He quickly excelled from a sales position to the Regional President for the south Texas distribution center. While this career had a tumultuous ending, this path led him to his second wife, Barbara. After navigating new careers together, the two of them found success in the factoring industry, co-founding Nationwide Capital Funding, Inc. He served as President for over twenty-three years before retiring in 2021. After the passing of Barbara, he found comfort and companionship with life-long friend Phyllis Hudson, and they married in 2012.

Aside from his professional accomplishments, Eddie had a passion for golf, hunting, and supporting his family in everything they did. Even though Eddie was well traveled and conquered many of his lifelong goals he continued to maintain an adventurous zest for life. He was known for his quick wit, infectious smile, and big heart. He enjoyed playing golf on a regular basis with his best friend, family, and colleagues. He was ever present at his grandchildren's events. Whether it was sports, school plays, or dance recitals, you could find Papa in the crowd sporting a Texas Longhorns logo on his cap.

Eddie was an especially thoughtful man whose concern for the happiness and wellbeing of others was unwavering. He had the ability to make anyone he met feel important. He will be deeply missed and celebrated often for the incredible life he lived.

In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to the Wounded Warrior Project or the American Cancer Society.