Arthur Lee Thornton

Arthur Lee Thornton, 92, of Lake Charles passed away on Wednesday, April 19, 2023 in his residence.

Mr. Thornton was born on January 12, 1931 in Walker, LA and was raised in the Baton Rouge/Denham Springs/Walker area.  He served his country in the US Navy before beginning his career with Western Electric, later named AT&T.  Mr. Thornton earned his way up to a supervisor before retiring and was a member of the Pioneer Club.  He also belonged to the W.B. Williamson American Legion Post #1 and several VFW’s where he held many offices with both.  Mr. Thornton was a member of Christ Community Church.

In his spare time he enjoyed fishing and barbequing and was known for his signature fried chicken.  His most cherished time was spent with family and telling stories from his earlier years. 

Those left to cherish his memory are his wife, Sherry Neal Thornton of Lake Charles; children, Nelda Jean Becnel of Moss Bluff, Janet McClendon (James) of Lake Charles, David Thornton of Lake Charles, and Kenneth Thornton (Jenny) of Lake Charles; step son, Mike Meacham (Sammie) of Corpus Christi, TX; fourteen grandchildren, Chris, Jeromie, Brandie, Michael, Megean, Misty, Kenneth II, Brigette, Felicia, Gary, Katie, Kassie, Kelly, and Shae; and multiple great grandchildren and great great grandchildren.  He also leaves behind a very close family friend, Shelly Conrad and her daughters, Bridget and Tiffany of Westlake. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mary and William Thornton; sons, Randall and Robert “Bobby” Thornton; stepdaughter, Becky Riley; and several siblings.

Cremation was entrusted to Johnson Funeral Home.  A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM on Saturday, April 29, 2023 at Christ Community Church, 2500 Prien Lake Rd., Lake Charles, LA.  Pastor Rick McClain will officiate.