In memory of Donald O. Thornton

Thornton MS namesake Don Thornton (left) and Thornton MS principal Reggie Mitchell (right) during Thornton's most recent visit to the school.

The memorial service for Donald O. Thornton, former superintendent of schools (1986-1992) and namesake of Thornton Middle School, will be held at 5 p.m. Thursday, April 7 at Sam Houston Funeral Home located at 1700 Normal Park Drive in Huntsville.

Don, who passed away on March 30, was loved and respected by many and has been described by those he worked with as innovative, dedicated, hard working, caring and loyal. A distinguished CFISD 75th Anniversary honoree, Don began his career as a CFISD teacher in 1964 and assumed leadership roles of assistant superintendent and assistant deputy superintendent before being named superintendent of schools.

Don and his wife, Dixie, were well-respected, dedicated employees who helped in shaping the outstanding direction of our school district. In honor of his love and dedication to CFISD, we are asking the CFISD family to wear school t-shirts on April 7.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the Cy-Fair Educational Foundation in his honor.

Our deepest sympathies go out to the Thornton family.