A graveside service for Gary Dean Thornton "Pops", of Avinger, Texas will be held on Wednesday, August 18, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. at Colonel Gardens Cemetery in Marshall, Texas with Chaplain Billy Brewer officiating. Visitation will be Tuesday, August 17, 2021 from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 pm. at Downs Funeral Home in Marshall, Texas.

Gary Dean Thornton was born on April 28, 1957 in Ft. Myers, Florida to Bobby D. and Betty L. Thornton. Mr. Thornton passed away on August 14, 2021 at this home in Avinger, Texas.

He traveled all the country for 45 years working for Irby doing construction work. He loved the water, jet skiing and boating. Above all he loved his grandkids very much.

He is survived by his partner of 10 years, Katie Sutton; stepson, T.J. Cureton and wife, Allie; bonus grandkids, (T.J.'s children), Taylor, McKenzie, Jacob, Kallie, Abbi and Heidi; a sister, Sharon K. Thornton of Marshall, TX; a half-sister, Linda K. Keasler of Northport, AL; a step brother Mike Quilliams of Northport, AL and other family members and friends.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Bobby D. and Betty L. Thornton.