RICHARD EUGENE THORNTON, age 84, of Washington CH, passed away peacefully on Monday, September 14, 2026 at his home.

He was born on February 17, 1942 in Chillicothe, Ohio to the late Marshall and Irene (Wallace) Thornton. He was a 1961 graduate of Miami Trace High School. Richard retired from Smurfit Stone, now MEAD Containers. He was a faithful member of the Crossroads Christian Church in Washington CH. He enjoyed playing games on his phone, going to church, his daily Bible studies, and he was also an avid Cincinnati Bengals and Ohio State fan.

In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Sharon Rae (Ater) Thornton, whom he married on August 21, 1976; his stepmother who raised him, Evelyn Thornton; and brother, Cloyce Thornton.

Survivors include his children, Charlotte Mercer, Richard (Wendy) Jones, and Nancy Hanlon; grandchildren, Nathan (Stephanie Goodridge) Pendergraft, Clayton (Cassandra) Jones, Holden (Cassie) Jones, Craig Hanlon, and Rose Hanlon; great-grandchildren, Austyn Pendergraft, Nolan Pendergraft, Finley Jones, and Faeanna Jones; siblings, Roy (Becky) Thornton, Cennie (Jim) Bradley, Judy Thornton, and Vi Frazier; and sister-in-law, Robyn Ater. Also surviving are several nieces, nephews, and a host of friends.

The funeral service will be held on Friday, September 18, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at the Summers Funeral Home with Pastor Adam Lynch officiating with burial to follow at the Highlawn Cemetery. Family and friends may visit at the funeral home on Friday morning from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.

Online condolences may be directed to www.summersfuneralhome.com