Hugh G. Thornton Jr., had exciting life

Hugh G. Thornton Jr., 92, of Millsboro passed away Sunday, Aug. 29, 2021, with his daughter Claudia and his dear friend Georgia by his side.

Hughie was born in the Bronx, N.Y., and graduated from the Industrial School of Art in Manhattan, N.Y., in 1948.  He worked as a bricklayer in Manhattan and also as a building inspector, eventually retiring as a superintendent of schools of Dumont, N.J., in 1992.  Hughie, also known as Mickey, proudly served his country in the U.S. Army during the Korean War and was also a P.O.W. of that war.

Hughie lived a full and exciting life.  He would often reflect on his life while doing tile work on the bar at Jilly’s Restaurant in Manhattan during the ‘50s. During this time, he had the privilege to meet Frank Sinatra several times, as that was the hangout for the Rat Pack.  He also was trapped during the 9/11 attack and was rescued by a fire dog by the name of Sam.  After Sam’s retirement from the fire company, Hughie was given Sam, who became his constant companion until Sam’s passing at age 18. Hughie was also well-known in the area for his artwork and was still painting up to his last day.  He would teach at the Lewes and Rehoboth Beach senior centers, and participated in many art shows, where admirers of his work would return to purchase his paintings.

He was preceded in death by his loving wife, Dorothy, in 1999; a son, Hugh Christopher, in 2012; and son-in-law, Michael Caruso, in 2014.  Hughie is survived by his daughter, Claudia Caruso; daughter-in-law, Lisa Thornton; and his girlfriend of the past 12 years, Pat Webb.  

A viewing will be held from 5 to 8 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 7, at the Long Neck Chapel of Melson Funeral Services, 32013 Long Neck Road, Millsboro, where a prayer service will be held at 8 p.m.  A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, Sept. 9, at Elk Creek Cemetery in Schenevus, N.Y.

In lieu of flowers, please send donations in Hugh’s name to the Wounded Warrior Project by visiting www.woundedwarriorproject.org.

Online condolences may be sent by visiting www.melsonfuneralservices.com