Obituary of Barbara S Thornton

Barbara S. Thornton, of East Rockaway and Preston Hollow, NY, passed away on October 20,, 2024, the day after her 97th birthday, following a brief illness. Barbara was born on October 19, 1927 to Charles and Pearl Feeney. After graduating from Valley Stream Central H.S., she went on to work for 17 years as an assistant buyer at S.H. Kress & Co. NYC, before raising her family. In 1958, Barbara married William E. Thornton at St. Raymond RC Church in East Rockaway. They went on to have three children: Barbara Lyn, Nancy Jean, and William. They raised their family in East Rockaway, and spent time with family and friends at their home in Preston Hollow, NY. Barbara was a caregiver in every sense of the word. She cared for both her husband and daughter through their respective illnesses. She was a devoted grandmother to her 8 grandchildren . She loved her family with dedication and generosity like none other. She attended every big event for her loved ones with joy, but her love was most powerfully felt in the small things- getting lunch, going shopping, a long drive, or simply sitting together at home. She donated to many charities, including The Red Cross Foundation, Veterans Association, and the MS foundation. Barbara was predeceased by her husband William, daughter Barabara Lyn, and daughter-in-law Jeanine. She is survived by her daughter Nancy Connor (Brian) and their children Katelyn (Joseph Murtagh), Siobhan (Zachary Tomilo), Tara Ann, Meghan, Mairead, and her son William, and his children Colleen Vacchio (Lawrence, and children Killian & Maeve), William, and MaryKate. Her indefatigable drive and spirit, as well as her unconditional love, was a gift to us all.