Edward Lee Thornberry

Edward Lee Thornberry, age 79 of Sullivan, Indiana went home to be with our Lord on Wednesday, March 8.

Ed was preceded in death by his parents Willis Ernest and Gladys (Malone) Thornberry, brothers Ernest Willis, Joseph, Paul, and sister, Irene Settles Rollins.

Survivors include his loving wife Betty (Luttrell), daughters Debra (Richard) Markham, Nashville, TN; Dianna Akers, Shelburn, IN; Dawn (Leon) Roberts, Merom, IN; Daniele (Trevor) Williams, Murfreesboro, TN; Billie Jo Fisher, Shelburn, IN; and son Terry (Tina) Thornberry, McEwen, TN; twenty grandchildren and eleven great grandchildren. Of the many accomplishments of his lifetime he was proudest of his family. Ed was a devoted son, husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and friend to many across the years. He always had a ready smile and engaging conversation with everyone that crossed his path.

He was born March 27, 1937 at his family's home in Fairbanks, Indiana. He was the fourth son and the youngest of five children born to Willis Ernest and Gladys (Malone) Thornberry.

He actively served in the US Navy between 1955 to 1967. He initially held the post of Aerographer's Mate prior to deployment overseas. He then received duties aboard the USS Ranger in the Pacific region during the Vietnam War. He held responsibilities as a Liaison Officer with top secret clearance while stationed in Japan and Washington DC. He truly enjoyed his time in Japan, Guam and the Asia region with his family while exploring the area and cultures.

He continued as a Liaison Officer at the Pentagon in Washington DC. Additionally, he was proud to have served in the honor guard for President Lyndon Johnson's second inauguration. His careers included auto mechanic, newspaper delivery, and holding a nursing license with which provided empathetic care for psychiatric patients.

Ed's hobbies and interests included bowling, archery, golf, ice skating, roller skating, fishing, and swimming. He also enjoyed many sporting events over the years where he was able to watch his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren play many different sports. He was also a hero with a sling shot to many of his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

For those of us that call him father, we will always carry his encouraging words and wisdom among our greatest gifts. We thank God for the gift of this precious man that loved each of us so well.

Services will be held at the Holmes Memorial Chapel with visitation Friday, March 10 from 4:00-8:00 pm and funeral services Saturday, March 11 at 11:00 am. Graveside services will be held at Johnson Cemetery in Graysville.