James Thornberry

James Henry Thornberry, 79, passed away peacefully on Sunday, November 26, 2023, surrounded by his loving family. He was the son of the late William and Emma Thornberry. James is survived by his devoted wife of over 60 years, Anna Thornberry. Together, they were blessed with four children: Anita (Chris) Arnette, Todd Thornberry, David Thornberry, and preceded in death by son James (Steve) Thornberry. He is also survived by eight grandchildren: Danielle (James) Cooper, Justin (Megan) McNabb, Branden (Kelsey) Thornberry, Dylan Thornberry, Gracelyn Thornberry, Andy (Lindsey) Arnette, Adam (Abbie) Arnette, Blake (Alex) Arnette, and thirteen great-grandchildren. He is reunited in eternal peace with his parents and three siblings: Dorothy Hardy, William Thornberry, and Elaine Day.

James found joy in activities such as fishing, boating, hunting, and golf. He cherished spending time with his family and friends, especially his grandchildren. A dedicated member of First Baptist Church of Murphy in Fenton, MO, he had a deep love for the Lord and took pride in serving within his church community.

Remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, uncle, friend, and devout man of faith, James will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His warmth and love were felt by many and his absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill until we are reunited.

A celebration of James’s life will be held at First Baptist Church of Murphy, 203 Old Sugar Creek Road, Fenton, MO, on December 30th, 2023, at 2 pm.

In lieu of flowers donations are appreciated to the First Baptist Church of Murphy Benevolence Fund.

2 Comments

  1. Danielle Cooper on December 4, 2023 at 10:14 am

    Grandpa,
    You were the BEST Grandpa ever! I am thankful to have had you for the 43 years of my life that you stayed and I know how lucky I am for all the memories and all that time! I will miss your smile, laughter, the way you made coffee every morning… I will always remember you as the Grandpa who went down water slides with me, and played with me without complaint! I will love you forever and until we meet again! My children will know of you always!
    Your favourite and 1st Grandbaby,
    Danielle xxxx



  2. RUTH ANN SAAB on December 5, 2023 at 3:17 am

    Jim . dearest nephew you were a kind and loving father ,husband and grandfather. everyone who knew you loved you.
    you were always so happy and kind to all..I remember the fun we all had at our family reunions.and how we laughed together
    over just remembering silly stuff that had happened over the years. you were a blessing to me and all that knew you
    God will take care of you and he will enjoy having you as we have…Phil 1;3 I think my God on all remembrance of you.



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