Clinton,

Robert Allen Thornton, Sr, 73, of 3210 Keener Rd. Clinton, passed away, Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at Kitty Askins Hospice Center.

Funeral service will be held at 2 PM, Sunday, January 4, 2025, at Crumpler-Honeycutt Funeral Home with Rev. Charles Ray Jernigan officiating.  Interment will follow in the Clinton City Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 6 PM – 8 PM, Saturday, January 3rd at Crumpler-Honeycutt Funeral Home.

Robert, born June 20, 1952, in Sampson County, was the son of the late Russell Lea Thornton and Mary Elizabeth Powell Thornton.  He was a farmer and retired member of the Halls Fire Department.

Robert was a hardworking, kind, and generous soul who would give the shirt off his back to anyone in need, never expecting anything in return.  He was deeply rooted in the Keener Community, where he was born and raised among close family and lifelong friends.  Robert was a familiar and trusted presence, known for his strong work ethic, warm heart, and willingness to help others.

Outside of work, Robert found joy in the simple things he loved most – hunting, fishing, riding horses, tending his garden, and cooking his “world famous” BBQ Chicken on the grill.  These passions, along with his genuine spirit and love for his community, will be remembered and cherished by all who knew him.

Survivors include: wife, Alice Faye Holland Thornton; son, Robert Allen Thornton, Jr.; daughter, Patricia Longino and husband Matthew  and Nina Thoman and husband Kevin; sisters, Ann Thornton, Linda Faye Wengert and husband John and Lois Thornton Hope; grandchildren, Kelly Longino, Adelaide Longino, Zach Thoman and Nate Thoman; and a special great-niece, Haley Alexis Burch.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to all those in the community who supported Robert with such kindness and care throughout his three-year journey and battle with cancer.

In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Hall’s Fire Department, 7730 Hobbton Hwy, Clinton, NC  28328

Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.crumpler-honeycutt.com.