Woodrow Thornton, Jr (Lansing)

"Woody" was born March 9, 1952 in Highland Park, Michigan to the union of Woodrow and Helen Thornton Sr. He was the second of four siblings born to this union. His parents and his infant brother, Robert, preceded him in death.

 Woody accepted Christ at an early age at Calvary Baptist Church under Pastor L. Juan Burt. He was active in the Del-sonta' Youth Choir and known for his tenor voice. In 2013, Woody joined New Life International Church under Pastor Philip R. Moore. He was appointed Trustee in 2014. 

Woody attended Mackenzie High School in Detroit and earned his GED. He continued his education while serving in the U.S. Army. Woody attended Frankfurt College in Germany where he learned to speak German. He was a proud U.S. veteran and served in Vietnam from 1972-1975. 

Upon returning from the Army, Woody met and married Brenda Hobson. To this union, two children were born; Dorian and Ashley. In 1999, Woody married Gwen M. Wright-Thornton who preceded him in death. From their union, Woody gained another daughter, Cy’Kenya.

 Woody worked at Detroit Edison energy company until his retirement. In his later years, he became a home healthcare professional and diligently cared for several clients until he became ill. 

Woody leaves the following loved ones to cherish memories: Mother, Mrs. Gussie B. Thornton; fiancé Gwendolyn Harris; Sisters, Florence (Rickey), Kathleen (Alan), and Joyce; Brothers, Darrell (Sabrina) and Myron Henderson; Sons, Dorian, Joel & Edward; Daughters, Ashley (Tametrius) and Cy'Kenya (Michael); grandchildren, Ashton, Sharda, Breanna, Markeyna, Joshua, Kyeisha, Me'Kayla, Michael James, and great granddaughter, Mayah; nieces, Michelle, Brandy, Kelly, Monique (Antwan), Elisa (Dec) and Kayla; nephews, Antonio Golden, Christopher, Marcus (Tamika) and Jaylen; great nieces and nephews, Taylor, Kalonie, Jazel, Keon, Donnoaven, Naiver and Morgan; and a host of aunts and uncles, cousins, and friends. Special thanks and love to Gwen, Cy’Kenya, and Ashley for looking out and caring for Woody during his illness.