Tommy Elwood Thornhill
81, Foxworth
Funeral services were held at 6 p.m. on Monday, Feb. 20, 2023, at Pine Grove United Pentecostal Church in Foxworth for Tommy Elwood Thornhill, 81, of Foxworth, who died on Friday, Feb. 17, at his residence. Rev. Jeffery Jones officiated at the services. Lawayne Rials and Stephanie Bozeman provided special music. Visitation was held from 4 p.m. until the time of the services on Monday, Feb, 20, at Pine Grove United Pentecostal Church. Burial was held in Pine Grove United Pentecostal Church Cemetery at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Feb. 21.
He was born to Earl and Lucy Thornhill on June 27, 1941, and became a lifetime resident of Marion County. He married his sweetheart, Carolyn Faye Rials, on Dec. 14, 1962. Their love story would span the next 60 years.
He had a long and prominent business career beginning with becoming a cattleman. Along with continuing in the cattle business, he began working for the Weyerhaeuser Company in Columbia. At the time of his retirement, he held the position of Maintenance Supervisor serving divisions of Mississippi and Louisiana. After retiring, he pursued his aspirations of starting a forestry business. In 1989, Thornhill Forestry Services, Inc. became the fulfillment of his dreams. His company would successfully serve the forestry needs of the Mississippi and South Louisiana areas for the next 32 years. Always staying true to his businessman’s vision, at the time of his passing, he was co-owner of Waldo’s Sports Center.
Being an avid hunter and outdoorsman, he spent countless hours at his hunting camp in Angie, La. One of his greatest enjoyments was sharing this property by planning hunts for family and friends.
Sixteen years ago through divine circumstances a two-month-old baby boy was brought into his life becoming the greatest joy he ever knew; making him a proud “PawPaw.” Brandon Price was a special gift, a God grandson. The two spent numerous hours in Angie with PawPaw imparting his hunting expertise. He was Brandon’s biggest fan at every ballgame, even sponsoring his baseball team. PawPaw has been a voice of wisdom, consistency and support for Brandon.
The last year of his life, he was able to spend quality time with his brother, Mitcheal. This blessing was an act of brotherly love that the two of them understood and cherished.
He was of the Pentecostal faith and made a great impact on area churches through his generosity. Also, in reflection of his caring and giving heart, those from all walks of life were beneficiaries. Countless times his contributions were made in anonymity, he didn’t want recognition or accolades.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Earl and Lucy Sylvest Thornhill; one brother, Farron Thornhill; and one sister, Nelda Smith.
Survivors include his wife of 60 years, Carolyn Faye Rials Thornhill of Foxworth; two brothers, Feldon Thornhill (Phyllis) and Mitcheal Thornhill (Kaye), both of Foxworth; one sister, Sharon Roberts of Foxworth; God grandson, Brandon Price of Foxworth; and a host of nieces and nephews.
Pallbearers were Jaran Hollis, Brandon Price, Jamie Price, Chris Rials, Lawayne Rials, Tony Smith, Brandon Thornhill and Eric Thornhill. Honorary Pallbearers were be Brayden Thornhill and Tucker Thornhill.
Friends may sign an online guest register book at www.hathornfuneralhome.com. Hathorn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.
