Elizabeth Thornton

Elizabeth Thornton, daughter of the late Charlie Wesley and Carlene Watson Jones, was born on May 6, 1920 in Goochland County, Virginia. She departed this life on October 30, 2002. She was the eldest of three children. Both siblings, Cora Griffin-Young and Odgree Redd, predeceased her.At age five, Elizabeth and her family relocated to Sparrows Point, Maryland, where she was lovingly reared. She accepted Christ at and early age and was baptized at Union Baptist Church in Sparrows Point. She attended public school in Sparrows Point, but left school early to begin her work experience. She worked faithfully in many capacities until she became an entrepreneur. She retired then and went back to work for three years.Elizabeth met the love of her life; Luther J. Thornton and they were united in holy matrimony on her birthday in 1949. On October 3, 1953, the joy of their lives, James Marques was born. The three of them enjoyed a loving, happy home life. Elizabeth and her beloved late sister-in-law, Magnolia Furman co-owned and co-operated the Gay Bar-B-Que Restaurant in East Baltimore. For years patrons enjoyed Elizabeth’s (Aunt Liz) and Magnolia’s (Aunt Sis) delicious home cooking. Elizabeth remained happily married to Luther until his death in 1977.Elizabeth loved her Lord and Savior. She moved her church affiliation from her church home to New Friendship Baptist Church and then to Zion Baptist Church. She enjoyed fellowship at many area churches and especially at First Mount Olive Freewill Baptist church with her son James. She was a prayerful woman, often leading family gatherings in prayer. She frequently enjoyed discussing the Holy Bible with her nephew Minister Reginald Drummond. Her three favorite words were “Thank You, Jesus.”Elizabeth loved her entire family. She enjoyed reminiscing with them about her life. She was an avid sports fan and often enjoyed traveling accompanied by nephews Charlie and Albert Griffin. Elizabeth and Luther not only reared their son, but they loved to extend heir love and support to many other family members.Elizabeth often acknowledged she had a good life and life didn’t owe her anything. Early Wednesday morning after a lengthy illness, Elizabeth’s dedicated son asked God to open the gates of Heaven for his mother. At about 7:15 p.m. that evening she was called from labor to reward.She leaves to cherish her memory: one son, James Marques Thornton; several nieces and nephews, two sisters-in-law, a host of other relatives and friends, including a loving neighbor, Mrs. Enoch Fung.

Tributes

Elizabeth Thornton

May 16, 1920 - October 30, 2002