Kathryn Mckeithan Thornton

Kathryn “Kay” McKeithan Thornton, 81, died Thursday, July 21, 2022 in Garner, NC. Kay was a vivacious soul, who never met a stranger. She was born on October 6, 1940 in Robeson County to Daniel & Kathryn McKeithan. She had great memories growing up in a small town. Her siblings meant the world to her. She moved away from home to study Nursing where she fell in love with her profession. Kay married James Thornton on November 21, 1964. They resided in Garner and were blessed with two children: Danny and Wanda. Kay worked as a Geriatric Nurse and Program Director at Doretha Dix Hospital throughout most of her career. She took great pride in her job and cared greatly for her patients. She enjoyed the companionship of her co-workers and being able to serve the Dix Community. Kay also worked at REX Hospital part time during her career. She retired after 30 years of service but decided that the retirement life wasn’t ready for her. She chose to serve in the infirmary at NC State University. She made many life long friends throughout this time. She was often known as the Community Nurse and truly enjoyed helping all of those in need. Kay was very involved in the Garner Community. She loved the Church and Turner Memorial Baptist was where she called home. She loved being a part of WMU and spending time with her Circle Group friends. Kay volunteered with the Garner Optimist Club throughout various seasons and loved serving her community. She enjoyed traveling with her husband and friends. Kay became a Grandmother, which earned her the title of “Baba” in the late 1980s. She spent a great deal of her time with her Granddaughter Jayme. She could be found volunteering at the Elementary School and various sporting events. Kay and Jayme enjoyed spending their summers at White Lake with family and friends. She could always be found sharing a joke and spreading a smile. Kay is survived by her children, son, Danny Thornton (Debbie); daughter, Wanda Thornton; granddaughter, Jayme Bustamante (Matt); and great granddaughter, Peyton Bustamante. A funeral service will be held on Monday, July 25, 2022 at 11:00 AM at Bryan-Lee Funeral Home Chapel in Garner, North Carolina. The family will receive friends from 3:00-5:00 PM, Sunday, July 24, 2022 at the home of Mrs. Kay Thornton.