Joe B. Thornton, 82, of Poteau, OK passed from this life Thursday, February 10, 2022 in Ft. Smith, AR. Joe was born October 23, 1939 in Frederick, OK to Robert G. & Estelle (Townsend) Thornton. Growing up, Joe attended Victory School in Southwestern OK and graduated in 1957. He attended college at Southeastern Oklahoma State University and graduated in 1964. He married the love of his life in 1963 and they had two daughters. He was an educator for 33 years. He taught Chemistry and Physical Science at Poteau High School. He was a deacon at Southside Baptist Church for 53 years. He is preceded in death by his parents; sister & brother in law, Joye & Monty Wright.
He is survived by his wife of 59 years, Gerry; daughters, Janet Green and husband Joel, Jeanna White and husband Michael; grandchildren, Jake Collins and Kaci, Josh Collins, Jase White & Jamie White; great grandson, Andy Collins; brother, Jerry Thornton and wife Vicky; sisters, Glenda Moore and Brenda Wilson; many nieces, nephews, other extended family.
Services will be 10 am, Tuesday, February 15, 2022 at Southside Baptist Church with Rev. Jim Reed officiating. Burial will follow at Oakland Cemetery. Pallbearers will be the deacons of Southside Baptist Church.
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The family has chosen to entrust the care of the services to Evans & Miller Funeral Home – Poteau, OK