Leota M. Thornton, 81, Edwards and Fowler

Leota M. Thornton, age 81, formerly of Edwards and Hailesboro, died on June 12, 2008 at her daughter’s home in Fowler where she had been living since May 2007.

Leota was born on May 27, 1927 in Ogdensburg, a daughter of the late Floyd and Pearl (Newvine) Hazelton. She graduated from Massena High School in 1944.

She married Gerald E. Thornton on August 31, 1946 by Rev. Dobbie in Hermon. The couple lived in Edwards where Mrs. Thornton was a homemaker. Mr. Thornton died on January 4, 1991 and, in 1992, Mrs. Thornton moved to Hailesboro.

Leota enjoyed spending time with her grandchildren and playing bingo. She loved to watch the birds and spending time outdoors. She was a gardener who canned her own vegetables and enjoyed picking berries. Mrs. Thornton and her husband had raised animals and Leota was an excellent cook.

Her survivors include a daughter and son-in-law, Debra J. and Gerald Phillips – Fowler, three sons and their wives; Floyd S. and Ann Thornton – Edwards, Dale A. and Karen Thornton – Dekalb Junction, and Michael S. and Rosalee Thornton, and a sister, Leona M. DeShane – Massena. Leota is also survived by 11 grandchildren, 25 great grandchildren, one great great grandchild, and many nieces and nephews.

She is predeceased by a son, Gerald D. Thornton, who died July 29, 1994, a sister, Leola M. Woodcock, and two brothers; Leon M. and Leo M. Hazelton.

Calling hours will be on Friday, June 13th, from 6 until 8 p.m. at French Funeral Home, Gouverneur. Her funeral service will be on Saturday, June 14th at 11:00 a.m. with Pastor Reginald Curtis officiating. Burial will be in Gates Cemetery, South Edwards. Donations in Mrs. Thornton’s memory may be made to the Edwards Volunteer Fire Department and Volunteer Rescue Squad or to Hospice and Palliative Care of St. Lawrence Valley.

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