Willie Thornton, 70, of Niagara Falls, NY, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2022 at Niagara Hospice House in Lockport, NY. Born in Greenville, Alabama, he was the son of Lena Pearl (Fails) Thornton and the late Will Thornton, and maternal grandson of the late Mary Fails.

Willie moved to the area with his parents and sister as a child and graduated from Niagara Falls High School. He earned his Bachelor's degree and was employed as a construction worker for many years prior to his retirement.  Willie was a member of the Worldwide Fellowship of Narcotics Anonymous.

Willie had a contagious personality and a great sense of humor. He enjoyed going fishing, barbequing, and providing a helping hand to anyone in need. Above all, he loved spending time with his family, who will miss him greatly.

In addition to his mother, Willie is survived by his daughter, Angela (John Jr.) Maye; his grandchildren, Naquelle Douglass, Sierra Bermudez and John Maye III, his great-grandchildren, Zaniyah and M Jay; his siblings, Alvin (Elizabeth) Thornton, Marlon Thornton, and Lorraine (Bishop Kevin Betton) Thornton-Betton, a special friend, Carolyn Chute, as well as a host of nieces, nephews and cousins. In addition to his parents, Willie was predeceased by his siblings, Doretta Scott, Curtis Thornton, and Mitchel Thornton.

The family would like thank the staff of Niagara Hospice House for the hospitality and care given to Willie and the family during his time there.

Visitation will be held on Monday, December 19 from 5 – 8 PM at M.J. COLUCCI & SON NIAGARA FUNERAL CHAPEL, 2730 Military Road, Niagara Falls, NY. Visitation will continue on Tuesday at 11 AM at New Jerusalem Revival Center, 2723 20 ^th Street, Niagara Falls, NY, followed by Willie's homegoing services at 12 Noon.  If desired, memorial offerings may be made to Niagara Hospice.  Visit mjcoluccifuneralchapel.com for online condolences.