Kenneth Thornton, 70, a proud veteran of the United States Marine Corp, passed away on May 26, 2022.  A lifelong resident of Newport News, he was proceeded in death by his parents, Warren B. Thornton and Artice  G. Wilson.  Kenneth graduated from Carver High School and following his military service, he completed 2 years of college at Thomas Nelson Community College.

After 23 years of dedicated service at the Yorktown Oil Refinery, he began to explore his passion for cooking.  During retirement, Kenneth loved to watch cooking shows to experiment with recipes.  Giving credit where credit was due, before retirement, he created an email for his wife that gave her the title of "Good Cook".  After retirement he reclaimed the title and labeled himself as the "Best Cook".  Being the best cook he never followed a recipe and every concoction received rave reviews from his family and friends.

Speaking of family, Kenneth loved his family unconditionally.  He lived in a way to make sure that everyone connected to him wanted for nothing. He planned his work and worked his plan. Even until his last days he was taking care of business.  With his larger than life personality he enjoyed everything about life and stressed about nothing.  Everyone knew when Kenneth arrived, a good time would be had.  He will be remembered for his radiant smile, his passion for music, his love for the Pittsburgh Steelers and his value of family.

Kenneth Thornton, in remembrance of you and your favorite song, "We
Gone Funk Like Our Father".

Kenneth was survived by his wife of 23 years, Valarie Thornton; children, Jared L. Thornton and Kenyetta C. Hamler (William); grandchildren, Diamondnique Thornton and Aquazia Hamler; great-grandchildren, McKenly, McKhai and Brea';
brother Milton B. Thornton (Deborah); sister Gloris Joyner; niece, Yolandis Lumpkins (Lenwood Sr.); nephew Jamison S. Thornton (Natasha); and a host of great-nieces and nephews, cousins, in-laws and close friends.

The family will receive family and friends from 11-2:00 PM Friday, June 3, 2022 at Berceuse Funeral and Cremation Traditions, 2609 Cunningham Dr. in Hampton, 757-825-8070.