Betty Jo Thornton

It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Betty Jo Thornton (nee McGaha) who returned to the Lord January 10, 2023. She was born on July 25, 1936 in Dandridge to Fuller and Lela McGaha. She is preceded in death by husband R.B. Thornton, husband Charles Bonham, siblings Bernice Gorrell, Robert “Bob” McGaha, Donald “Don” McGaha, Russell “Glenn” McGaha, son in-law, Terry "Wayne" Gray, nephew Keith Gorrell and niece Mary Gorrell. She is survived by her children Sheila Gray, Lesha Thornton, Barry Thornton, daughter in-law Arlene Thornton and granddaughter Taylor Thornton. Betty had been ill for several years and we especially want to thank Barry and Arlene who provided such wonderful and compassionate care for her. Betty was a multi-faceted person - as a nurse she brought healing and comfort to everyone in her care; as a mother she brought love and a curiosity of the world including music and nature; as a gardener she brought strong hands that planted many trees and spent many hours weeding. Most importantly as a Christian she brought the Truth of God. Betty really loved her little dog Phoebe - even with a receding memory she would ask about her. We are comforted that Betty is at peace and in heaven with many loved ones.