William Thornton Jr

William Maceo Thornton, Jr., age 90, also known as “Willie T” or “Uncle Bill”, passed away Wednesday, January 12, 2011 at OSU East Hospital. Bill was a native of Columbus, Ohio where he was a member of the Merry Makers Club for 55 years and a 32nd degree Mason of St. Mark’s Lodge #7 for over 55 years. After an early career with the Pennsylvania Railroad, he was owner of the Belmont Club, Big Bill’s Bar, Toast of the Town and Willie T’s. Preceded in death by parents William Sr. and Alma Thornton, daughter Mozelle Guthrie and sister Geraldine Barnett. Survived by loving wife of 54 years, Joan Thornton; sons Billy and Bobby Thornton; sisters, Mozelle Greene, Shirley Harper, Martha McKinnon, Lois Johnson, and brother Michael Thornton; grandchildren, Doug, Kevin, and Lenny Guthrie, Kim Moore, and William Michael Thornton; 8 great grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and loving friends, including Aurorah Allain and Clarissa Thomas. Memorial Service 4 p.m., Thursday, January 20, 2011 at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, 166 Woodland Ave., where the family will receive friends from 3 p.m. until the start of service. Father Jerome Burns, Officiant. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions will be accepted in his name to the St. Philip’s Capital Building Fund.