Todd D. Thornton

Guilderland- Following a long and courageous battle with cancer, Todd Douglas Thornton, 70, of Guilderland, NY, peacefully passed from this world to the next on Wednesday, September 13, 2023 under hospice care at home surrounded by his devoted family.

Born in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Todd was raised in Delmar, NY where he attended Bethlehem schools. He went on to attend Nyack College and SUNY Plattsburgh, graduating with a BS degree in education. Todd received his masters in education from the College of Saint Rose and completed post graduate studies in educational administration. Ultimately preferring the classroom to administration, he taught special education in a number of Capital District schools including Voorheesville, Capital Region BOCES, and South Colonie schools. In addition, over the years he both edited and scored many State Education tests including Math, Science, and English Language Arts. His gentle, encouraging heart and sense of humor served his students with special needs well over the years. .

Todd's quiet faith sustained him in life and especially throughout his long and challenging health journey. He was actively involved in several area churches over the years including Pineview Community Church, Grace Fellowship, and Christ's Church Guilderland. His grateful and courageous spirit was felt as he accepted less than ideal news of his health status when he said, "I made it to 70 and have been retired for 11 years. Not everyone gets to say that. Perhaps we would've traveled more, but I got to play lots of golf!" Todd was an avid golfer and belonged to Pinehaven Country Club. A favorite golf story among the family is how he once scored a hole in one "on a Mulligan"!

Todd was predeceased by his parents Thomas and Eileen (McGandy) Thornton and an infant brother, Tate.

He is survived by his wife of 48 years, Lynn, and his daughter, Jillian of Providence, RI; his brothers Timothy (Karen) of New Scotland, Terence (Sandy) of San Marcos, CA, Thomas (Max) of Castleton, and Trent (Sharon) of Calabash, NC. In addition, as the original "Funcle", he is survived by many nieces, nephews, as well as grand nieces and nephews. Todd's family was his heart. He will be sorely missed.

A memorial service will be held on Friday September 22 at 6:00 at New Comer Funeral Home. Visitation will be 4-6:00 immediately prior to the service.

In lieu of flowers friends may make donations directly to the Prostate Cancer Foundation at pcf.org In addition, Lynn and Jillian encourage friends to be tested for genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and 2, with the understanding that with knowledge comes power!

Click here to view Todd's Service