Gayle Madeline Thornton

Mrs. Gayle Madeline Thornton (née Hepler), 78, passed away peacefully at her home in Gainesville, Georgia on Saturday, April 5, 2025.

Gayle was born in Williamsport, Pennsylvania on December 27, 1946, to Donald and Frieda Hepler.  She graduated from Williamsport Area Senior High School and earned a bachelor’s degree in education from Lock Haven University and taught special education.  She was married to Jeffrey Thornton of Fairless Hills, Pennsylvania, on November 22, 1969, and together they had four sons.

Gayle eventually left the teaching profession to dedicate her time to raising her family.  She was an excellent chef and a talented decorator, known for keeping a beautiful, welcoming home.  Gayle gave freely of her time to support her friends, family, and those in need.  She was a compassionate listener and a trusted confidant to many who knew her.

Faith was a central pillar of Gayle’s life, and she was actively involved with the East Gainesville congregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses, who gave her their unreserved love and support.

Gayle is preceded in death by her parents and her brother Wayne. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jeffrey; by her children David and Stephanie Thornton of Northville, Michigan, Eric and Monica Thornton of El Paso, Texas, Michael Thornton of Windsor, Connecticut, and Zachary Thornton of Portage, Michigan; her sister Cheryl Kline (Hepler) of Levittown, Pennsylvania.  She leaves behind a legacy of love in her grandchildren:  Isabella, Maximiliano, Andrew, Addison, and Joseph.

Gayle’s life will be celebrated in a private family ceremony on Monday, April 14, 2025 at Memorial Park Funeral Home in Gainesville, Georgia.  Those wishing to honor her memory with a charitable donation are encouraged to donate in her name to the American Cancer Society (www.cancer.org).