Obituary of Gerard J. Thornton

THORNTON, Gerard J. of Glen Cove, NY on June 30th, 2025 at age 97.  Beloved husband of the late Kathleen "Pat".  Dear brother of the late Josephine Carmody (the late Bill) and the late James Jr. (the late Joan).  Also survived by many loving nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. 

Gerard was born to Marie Thornton (nee Dolen) and James Joseph Thornton of 148-07 9th Avenue, Whitestone on February 26, 1928.  He attended St. Luke's Parochial School and later attended and graduated from Bayside High School.  After graduating, Gerry worked in real estate with C. Grant Keck for a few years.

Gerard served in the U.S. Naval service for two years at the Amphibious Base in Norfolk, Virginia. He was recommended for re-enlistment before opting for discharge due his status as a newlywed. He received an Honorable Discharge in January 1953.

He enjoyed many shared experiences with McBrides and Thorntons as members of Hill Gun Club in Shandelee, New York. Gerry held official positions within the Club along with his father, James Sr., and brother, James Jr. He also enjoyed many happy weeks vacationing with wife, Pat, at Woodloch Pines in Pennsylvania’s Pocono Mountains and family gatherings of all kinds over the years. He was a loving husband to Pat as her health declined, providing the support and care she needed until her passing in late December 2018.

Visitation at Dodge-Thomas Funeral Home of Glen Cove on Sunday, July 6th, 2025 from 5-8pm.  Mass at St. Hyacinth's Church of Glen Head on Monday, July 7th, 2025 at 10:00am.  Interment to follow at Mount St. Mary Cemetery.