Arthur Thornton Jr.

New London — Arthur Thornton Jr., 71, beloved husband for 49 years of Pastor Alice (Webb) Thornton, entered into eternal rest on Wednesday, June 11, 2014, at Lawrence + Memorial Hospital, surrounded by his loving family.

He was born in Miller County, Ga., the son of the late Arthur Sr. and Inez (Moten) Thornton. He worked as a truck driver for many years at Electric Boat and for the City of New London, where he retired in 2005.

Besides his loving wife, he leaves to cherish his memory his daughters, Charlotte Fennell, Arthea Thornton, and Shaquna (Francisco Franco Villa); along with his pride and joy, his grandchildren, Charquita, Kenneth, Irnise (Adam), Shaquan, Tashyana (Joshua), Rakim, Mykell, Shalom, and Shelumiel; three great-grandchildren, Elijah, Rahmell, and Jakim; two brothers, Henry Thornton (Lillian) and William Thornton; two sisters, Mary Schufford, Inez Thornton; and a host of other relatives and friends. He will be remembered as Uncle, Buddy, Bud, Papa, Pop, Daddy, and Artie.

A celebration of his life will be held at noon on Wednesday at Apostolic Cathedral of Hope, 157 Green St., New London. Interment will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Relatives and friends may call from 10 a.m. until the time of service at the church.

Arrangements are entrusted to the Lester Gee Funeral Home, 108 Blinman St., New London.