Donald Lamar Thornton

Donald Lamar Thornton (Lamar), 48, of Atlanta, passed away August 2, 2014, unexpectedly, at his residence. He was born September 16,1965, at Hamilton Memorial Hospital, Dalton, son of Catherine Bridges Bethune Thornton and the late Gary Thornton; grandson of the late Ruth Bridges, and the late Thurman Thornton and Louise Thornton Vaughn, all of Whitfield County. He was preceded in death by his twin sister, Donna Laura Thornton Fridl, of East Ridge, TN, on February 27, 2013. He is immediately survived by his mother, Catherine Bridges Bethune Thornton of Dalton; siblings: sister, Gail Thornton Williams of Resaca; and brother, Charles Gary Thornton of Cleveland, TN. He is also survived by half-siblings: sister, Judy Paulette Bethune of Cohutta; and brother, James Paul Bethune of Dalton; in addition to dear personal friends, Anthony King of Calhoun and Ray McGrath of Atlanta. Lamar attended Northwest Whitfield High School, Dalton. He was former member of Mt. Vernon Baptist Church, Tunnel Hill. Lamar was in engaged in the building contracting trade for many years. He was an inveterate pop culture and music fan, having committed to memory an incredible repertoire of country and pop lyrics, which he could sing on cue with utmost precision and attention to detail. He was also an avid follower of politics and current events. His friends knew him for his deep spirituality and keen sense of empathy for those in unfortunate circumstances, particularly children. Although he was the victim of poor health for several years, his indomitable spirit and ever present faith in the future marked his every day. He gregariously treasured the company of his personal friends. His keen intelligence, infectious laughter, and amazing wit will live forever in the hearts and minds of those who loved him. Funeral services will be held at 3:00 p.m., Saturday, August 9, 2014 at St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church, Calhoun, and interment will follow at Fain Cemetery, Calhoun. (The family is requested to meet at the funeral home at 2:30 p.m.) Thomas Funeral Home of Calhoun is in charge of arrangements.