Jerry Thornton

Jerry LaRoy Thornton, affectionately known as JT, was born on June 2, 1966, in Chicago, IL to Evelyn Higgins Thornton.  Jerry was the youngest of three sons. He was preceded in death by his mother Evelyn.

Jerry accepted Christ at an early age. He enjoyed fellowship and going to service on Sundays at Resurrected Life International Church of Chicago, IL.

Jerry graduated from Whitney M. Young HS in 1984 where he played football. Sheila and Jerry met in high school. Jerry was often late to football practice due to him walking Sheila to the bus before practice. He went on to further his education attending Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI where he played football on the collegiate level, and later graduated from Governors State University in University Park, IL.

Jerry became a brother of Phi Delta Psi October 8th, 1989. Phi Delta Psi Fraternity Inc. is a college fraternity that focuses on academics, community service, developing young black men into leaders, and non hazing. His crossing name was Lethal Weapon 3. His line was deVoted 4 the cause. JT was a committed and valued brother serving in many positions, including in his local chapters, and the National Board. JT was dedicated to his fraternity and led many projects, fundraisers and charity functions. His smile, laughter, and enthusiasm will be truly missed, as he now joins the Omega Chapter (for brothers that have passed on).

Jerry and Sheila reconnected in 2001. Jerry was united in holy matrimony with his soulmate Sheila Young September 7th, 2003.  From their union one child was born, Jeremiah.

Jerry took tremendous pride in being a father. He enjoyed going to the movies with Jeremiah. Jerry took great pride in teaching Jeremiah how to be a team player, and supporting his teammates. Jerry loved attending Jeremiah’s athletic events and being the loudest one cheering for the team. Jerry was very active with Jeremiah, and also his friends.

Jerry loved his family & friends, DA Bears, golf, smooth jazz, and trying new restaurants. Jerry was a hard worker. He spent the majority of his career serving as a lead manager at World Kitchen and Ed Miniat. Jerry led with compassion, and modeled a strong work ethic for those around him. Jerry had a huge heart and easily connected with anyone he encountered. If Jerry thought you were a friend, you became family.

Jerry transitioned into glory on June 13th, 2023, with his loving wife Sheila by his side.

Jerry was preceded in death by his mother Evelyn Thornton. Jerry leaves behind his soulmate and loving wife Sheila & son Jeremiah Thornton of Chicago, IL; Brothers R. Cordell (Denise) of West Palm Beach, FL & David Thornton of Kalamazoo, MI; Brother in Law John Young (Stacey), one nephew R. Cordell Thorton II of West Palm Beach, FL; three nieces Kimberly Thornton Gumbs (Cleeton) & Sabrina Thornton Thompson (Wayne) of Orlando, FL and McKenzie Young of Chicago, IL; Mother and Father in Law Florida & John Young of Chicago, IL;  two Goddaughters Myah Johnson of Chicago, IL & Elexis Buchanan of Kalamazoo MI; one Godson Maxwell Evans of Chicago, IL; and a host of family, fraternity brothers, and friends.

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