Martha Ann Thornton's Obituary
Decatur – Martha Ann Thornton, 91, of Decatur, passed away Wednesday, February 19, 2025, at Imboden Creek Senior Living Center.
Martha was born on October 3, 1933, in Decatur, IL, the daughter of Paul Casey Duncan and Mildred Clem Duncan. A member of South Shores Christian Church, Martha worked in the deli at Jewel-Osco for many years retiring in 1989. Martha also volunteered many hours working at DOVE Inc. and enjoyed being part of the Nelson Park neighborhood. She married Robert D. Thornton on August 16, 1952, in Decatur.
Martha will always be remembered for her delicious chocolate chip cookies, warm cinnamon rolls and all the goodies hiding in the freezer. Even the grand-dogs enjoyed her homemade dog treats. She made sure her family and friends were taken care of; her kindness and generosity will be remembered forever.
Martha is survived by her husband, Robert; daughters: Cathy (Tom) Dilbeck of Lebanon, TN, Tammy (Ed) Smith of Decatur, and Suzanne J. (Richard) Wilkins of Dalton City; grandchildren: Tony (Abby) Etnier, Brianne (Josh) Raymer, Eric Smith, Matthew (Nicole) Dilbeck, Hayley (Curtis) Briggs, Jarrod (Elizabeth) Anderson, Zachary (Lacey) Dilbeck, and Corbin (Nichole) Anderson; 19 great grandchildren; nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.
Martha was preceded in death by her parents, son Donald L. “Donny” Thornton, and brothers Tom Duncan and Gene Duncan.
Visitation will be Saturday, March 1, 2025, from 1 pm until the service time of 2 pm at Graceland/Fairlawn Funeral Home. Burial will take place at a later date. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Special Olympics.
Special thanks to Kim, Bobby, Faith, Sheba, Bernadette and other staff at Imboden Creek.
Condolences and memories may be shared at www.gracelandfairlawn.com.
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