Jessie Edward Thornton, aged 87, of Laurel, MS, passed away peacefully at his residence on Thursday, October 10, 2024. Born on December 15, 1936, in Washington County, Alabama, Jessie was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather.

Jessie was a dedicated worker, spending 22 years at the Smokehouse of Laurel after retiring from a 25-year career at Masonite. He was a passionate Alabama football fan and enjoyed woodworking in his spare time. His strong faith was evident in his active membership at Life Church.

He is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Tina McLain Thornton; his sons, Alvin Leon Thornton and Jessie Evans Thornton (Tywana); his daughter, Janet Lafaye Cole; and his cherished grandchildren; Andre Thornton (Aletha), Jacob Thornton, Courtney Thornton, Justin Thornton, Danielle Thornton, Zachary Thornton, Cody Cole, Jacob Tyler Thornton and Tara Cole and 12 great-grandchildren. Jessie is also survived by his brothers, John Thornton (Kathy) and Jack Thornton.

Jessie was preceded in death by his parents, Jessie Harse Thornton and Claudia Thornton; his grandson, Jessie Alexander Thornton; and his brothers, Lonnie Thornton, Simmie Thornton, and Bobby Thornton.

Visitation will be held on Sunday, October 13, 2024, from 1:00PM until 3:00PM at Ellisville Funeral Home, located at 1204 B Ave, Ellisville, Mississippi. Funeral services will follow at 3:00PM at the same location, with Bro. Andre Thornton and Pastor Josh Fletcher officiating. Burial will take place at Thornton Cemetery in Stateline, MS.

Pallbearers will include Don Sumrall, Daniel Walters, Lester Chandler, Mike Geiger, Joe Hendry, and Earl "Peewee" August Jr., with honorary pallbearers Justin Thornton, Jacob Thornton, Tyler Thornton, Zach Thornton, and Doug Hinton.

Jessie's family invites friends and loved ones to sign the online guestbook at www.ellisvillefuneralhome.com.