Melvin Ira Thornhill
80, Columbia
Graveside services were held at 10 a.m. on Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2023, in Mt. Sinai Church of God Cemetery for Melvin Ira Thornhill, 80, of Columbia, who passed away peacefully on Sunday, Sept. 10, surrounded by his family. Rev. Johnathan McLemore officiated at the services. Military honors were rendered paying tribute to Melvin’s dedicated service to our nation. Visitation was held from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. on Monday, Sept. 11, at Colonial Funeral Home.
Born on Feb. 15, 1943, in Columbia, he grew up in Morgantown enjoying life fishing and spending time with his brothers and cousins. He later enlisted in the United States Marine Corps where he served 10 years with three tours in Vietnam. He was a distinguished military veteran and a man of many passions. After his dedicated service in the Marines, he spent over 40 years in the oilfield, drilling and completing oil wells, making many lifelong friendships.
He found solace and joy in the company of loved ones, spending time with his grandkids, telling funny jokes and keeping the school kids in line. He cherished the time spent with all of his family, his children and the wide variety of their friends. He loved them dearly, leaving behind a love for poker, dominoes and cooking that brought joy to those who knew him.
He will always be remembered for the joy and laughter he brought to his family and friends.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Irene Alexander; brother, Elzey Ray Thornhill; and sister, Caroline Crump.
Survivors include his brother, Lewis Webster Alexander Jr.; special cousin, Butch Thornhill; sons, Lance Thornhill (Cheryl) and Chad Thornhill (Brandy), both of Sumrall; daughters, Melissa Thornhill of Jacksonville, Fla., and Brittany Haddox (Drew) of Columbia; grandchildren, Carson Thornhill, Carter Lee, Cooper Thornhill, Jordan Thornhill, Cayden Thornhill, Brinlee Haddox and Addie Ford; honorary daughter, Merida Fortenberry; honorary granddaughter, Allie Watts; and a host of extended family and friends.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly prefers memorial contributions be made to Melvin’s favorite charity, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital at www.stjude.org.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.colonialfuneralhomes-ms.com for the Thornhill family. Arrangements entrusted to Colonial Funeral Home.
