Lillian Thornton, 95 of Mc Gregor, Iowa passed away, Sunday, March 26, 2023 at the Great River Care Center in McGregor, Iowa. She was born on June 17, 1927 to Lyle Casper and Minnie Marie (Follman) Ayers in Guttenberg, Iowa. She was raised by her stepfather John W. Rodenberg. In her early years, Lillian milked cows for the Walters. On December 13, 1945.
Lillian was united in marriage with George W. Thornton in Waukon and became a farm wife until they moved to town. Lillian then went to work at the White Springs Supper Club for over 25 years. She loved quilting and made and donated hundreds of quilts with the ladies of Swede Ridge Lutheran Church. She was also known for her homemade noodles and apple pies.
Surviving Lillian are her two sons, Jerry (Sandy) Thornton and Dan (Denise) Thornton, both of McGregor, Iowa; seven grandchildren; 15 great -grandchildren; three great-great grandchildren; one brother, Frank Rodenberg of Marquette, Iowa; and many nieces and nephews.
Preceding Lillian in death were her husband, George Thornton; parents, Lyle Ayers and Minnie Rodenberg and step-father, John Rodenberg; daughter, Shara (Jim) Cota; brother, LaVerne (Lorraine) Ayers; sister, Betty (Bill) Sweeny; brother, Bennie (Cheryl) Rodenberg; sister-in-law Judy Rodenberg; and twin great grandaughters.
Visitation will be held from 9:00 am to 11:00 am on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Swede Ridge Lutheran Church, rural McGregor, Iowa.
Funeral Service will be at 11:00 am on Saturday, April 1, 2023 at Swede Ridge Lutheran Church, rural McGregor, Iowa with Rev. Gary Hatcher as the officiant. Live stream link: First & St. Paul Lutheran Churches
Burial will follow at Pleasant Grove Cemetery in McGregor, Iowa. Thornburg-Grau Funeral Home and Cremation Service of McGregor, Iowa is assisting the family with arrangements.