Kenneth Thornton

Obituary for Kenneth Don Thornton

Kenneth Don Thornton, age 80, peacefully passed away at his home in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Known affectionately as Ken, Kenny, and Kenny Don, he was born in Magnolia, Texas, where he cherished the blessings of small-town life throughout his youth.

Ken is preceded in death by his parents, Georgia and Olive Thornton, and two siblings, Royce and Milton Thornton. He is survived by his loving wife, Rochelle Hausum Thornton, of Tulsa, Oklahoma; his sister, Joyce Patterson, of La Verna, Texas; and his three children: Tim Thornton of Tulsa, Oklahoma; Amy Bates of Fayetteville, Arkansas; and Roxann Gorman of Kure Beach, North Carolina. He also leaves behind their spouses-Julie Thornton, David Bates, and Casey Gorman-as well as beloved grandchildren and their spouses: Addie and Trevor Yates, Jake Thornton, Hayden and Mason Moody, Michael Bates, and Brian Hubbard and Jeffry Hubbard. Additionally, Rochelle's children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and a soon-to-arrive great-great-grandchild.

Ken was an accomplished athlete, playing every sport available at his high school and later competing in college basketball at Wayland University in Plainview, Texas. After marrying his first wife, he was drafted into the military, proudly serving in the Army and stationed in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Following his military service, Ken and his growing family relocated to Houston, Texas, where he completed his degree at the University of Houston and enjoyed a successful career in IT for several decades.

Despite separating from his first wife after 20 years, Ken and Sheryl maintained a close friendship. He later met and married his life partner Rochelle, and together they built a loving life in Tulsa, where they resided for over 30 years.

A lover of music, Ken was a talented guitarist and songwriter, serving as president of the Tulsa Songwriters Association for several years. He was an avid fisherman and golfer, known for his wicked sense of humor that remained with him until his final days. 

Ken valued family deeply and held a strong faith in the Lord throughout his life.

Ken fought cancer valiantly, holding on to his belief that he could overcome it until the very end.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Ken's memory to a charity of your choice. His humor, talents and love will be deeply missed by all who knew him.