Elaine Thornton

Elaine Thornton, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2025, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 79. Born on November 2, 1945, in Cleburne, Texas, to Richard and Letha Shelton, Elaine's life was one of devotion—to her faith, her family, her friends, and her community.

Elaine grew up in Arlington, attending Carter Junior High before graduating from Arlington High School in 1964. It was there she met the love of her life, Jim Thornton, when he was a senior. After two years of dating, they married on June 20, 1964, and recently celebrated 61 wonderful years together. Their early married life took them to El Paso during Jim's service in the U.S. Army before returning to Arlington in 1969 to plant their roots and raise their family.

A devoted homemaker, Elaine later pursued her passion for helping others by returning to school to become a dental hygienist, working for Dr. Alan Bishop and Dr. Brian Bishop. Outside of work, Elaine's creativity shined through her love of sewing, quilting, and the delicate art of paper quilling. She also shared Jim's sense of adventure, earning her scuba diving certification and exploring underwater wonders, especially in the Grand Cayman Islands. One of her most cherished trips was traveling to Europe to celebrate her daughter Kelli's graduation, with Paris and London quickly becoming favorite destinations. Winters often found Elaine and her family skiing the slopes of Breckenridge, Colorado.

For over 15 years, Elaine and Jim owned a lake house on Palo Pinto Lake, where they created countless memories with their children and grandchildren. Summers were spent tubing, skiing, and wakeboarding, with the family gathered on the wraparound porch enjoying the Texas sunsets. The 4th of July was especially magical, filled with fireworks and laughter, and Elaine’s homemade ice cream was a beloved treat during those hot holiday weekends.

Elaine deeply valued her relationships, especially with her sisters. Every year, they would gather for a cherished “sisters weekend,” a tradition filled with laughter, stories, and a bond that grew stronger with each passing year. Elaine is survived by her sisters: Linda Klem and husband Bob, Patty Chennault and husband Eddy, Janice Griffin, Leta Parker and husband Jay, and Peggy Creasy and husband Charles. She also leaves behind numerous nieces and nephews who were dear to her heart.

Faith was the cornerstone of Elaine's life. She was an active member of Fielder Road Baptist Church, where she and Jim served as Sunday School directors, and where Elaine taught college students for many years. She had a heart for ministry, especially through International Friends at First Baptist Church Arlington, where she welcomed and supported international students, taught ESL classes, and helped newcomers adjust to life in the United States.

Elaine's greatest joy was her family. She never missed a game, recital, or school event for her children, Kevin and Kelli, and later poured that same love and attention into her grandchildren. She and Jim shared many Texas Rangers games over the years, a pastime that brought them closer together. Elaine also cherished traditions—Thanksgiving and Christmas were her favorite holidays, and her famous Santa Claus cookies became a family legend. She loved decorating for Christmas, with every ornament and decoration having a special place and meaning.

Known for her gentle spirit, Elaine was a patient listener, fair-minded, and deeply moral. She grew up in a large, close-knit family, often helping raise her younger sisters, and she carried those values into her own home. She kept her home and garden with great care, even ironing her bed sheets and helping Jim with yard work. A believer in healthy living, she stayed active by walking at the mall with her church friends and enjoyed desserts like cherry cobbler, pies, and cookies in moderation. Elaine also adored her Labrador retriever, Libby, who was her loyal companion for many years.

Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Richard and Letha Shelton, and her brothers, Daniel and David Shelton. She is survived by her devoted husband, Jim Thornton; her son, Kevin Thornton and wife Sheila; her daughter, Kelli Ennis and husband Bobby; and her beloved grandchildren, Emma Wilson and husband Kasey, Joshua Thornton, Emory Ennis, Eily Ennis, Julien Martinez, and Aidan Martinez.

Elaine's life was a reflection of grace, love, and service. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of kindness and faith will continue to inspire the lives she touched.

In lieu of flowers the family ask that you donate to the Michael J. Fox Foundation and the P.A.N. Foundation, two charities that were near and dear to Elaine. 

Michael J. Fox Foundation - Donation Site

PAN Foundation - Donation Site