04/23/2024
Dr. Russell Jay Thornton, DO, age 59 of Lexington, Missouri, formerly of Boise, ID, died on Saturday, April 20, 2024, at his home.
He was born Thursday, August 20, 1964 in Cayuga, Indiana and was the son of the late Archie Thornton and the late Janelle (Hankins) Thornton. He was the husband of Tami (Fuller) Thornton, marrying June 19, 1993.
He graduated from Borah High School in Boise, ID. He attended Western University of Health Sciences - College of Osteopathic Medicine of the Pacific in Pomona, CA graduating in 1994 and did his residency at Midwestern University Chicago College of Osteopathic Medicine in Downers Grove, IL. He moved to Missouri to start a family and continue practicing medicine. He served the communities of Higginsville and Odessa through the 1990's and in 2005 he and his wife opened their own Family Medical Clinic in Blue Springs, MO.
When he wasn't serving the needs of his community he enjoyed painting and drawing. He was a talented artist. He loved spending time with his family. Independence Day was his favorite family gathering holiday and he could always be counted on to go overboard on fireworks and celebrations. He loved animals and always had pets. Many weekends he would be seen giving his dogs rides on their golf cart.
Russ was an intelligent, talented, super funny friend that will be missed by family, colleagues, and anyone having the pleasure to call him friend. There will definitely be a void from his absence.
Surviving are his wife, Tami of the home; one daughter, Vinca Thornton of Warrensburg, MO; one son, Alex Thornton of Warrensburg; two brothers, Michael Thornton and Kendell (Monique) Thornton; and one sister, Hazel Thornton; mother-in-law, Donna Fuller; sister-in-law, Donnette Payer; two nieces, Jeannette Lyu (Joy) and Sara Payer; and one nephew, David Payer.
A celebration of Russell's life will be held at their Family Medical Clinic on Friday, April 26, 2024 from 6:00 - 8:00 PM, located at 1700 NW Mock Ave. Blue Springs, MO 64015.
In lieu of flowers memorials may be made out to Tami Thornton - Family Medical Clinic 1700 NW Mock Ave. Blue Springs, MO 64015.
