Robert Lee Thornburg

Robert Lee Thornburg, 80 passed away Monday, Dec. 19 at the V.A. Medical Center in Augusta, Ga.  Robert had been a resident of the Ga. War Veterans nursing home, following an extended illness. Born October 7, 1936 he was raised in Jackson, Michigan, and later moved to the Ann Arbor area.  He was the son of David and Evelyn Thornburg.

Mr. Thornburg is survived by his wife of 22 years, Loretta Topshe Thornburg; a sister Beverly Berta of Willis, Michigan; daughters, Kimberly Ellery (husband Tom) of Milton, GA. & Deborah Lisa Thornburg of Lebanon, OR.  He also leaves behind 4 grandchildren, and many sister-in-laws/brother-in-laws, nieces and nephews.

In his early years he enlisted in the U.S. Army, and afterwards went on to receive a degree from Eastern Michigan University.  After his college graduation he was hired by The Ford Motor Company in Dearborn, MI and reported directly to Lee Iaccoca traveling the country buying and selling Ford dealerships for 15 years.  Robert then moved to Atlanta and continued his career as a General Manager with Ford Lincoln Mercury Dealership.

In the early 80’s Mr. Thornburg started his own company, Winston Taylor and Assoc. representing and brokering for large health insurance companies.Robert was an avid tennis player and a member of Alta Tennis here in Atlanta, and he also enjoyed playing golf.  He had a passion for dogs especially German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers & his most recent pet, Sadie, a West Highland Terrier.

Funeral services will be held, January 13th at 10:00 am at Ingram Funeral Home, Cumming, GA.  A military service will follow at Ga. National Cemetery in Canton, GA at 12:30 pm. 

Ingram Funeral Home & Crematory, Cumming, Georgia is in charge of arrangements.

Condolences may be made at www.ingramfuneralhome.com.