Richard Allen Thornton, 94, of Collinsville, IL, passed away peacefully on Thursday, September 18, 2025, at Jefferson Barracks VA Hospital in St. Louis, MO.

He was born on July 26, 1931, in Omaha, NE to the late Malcolm Sr. and Gertrude (nee Baldwin) Thornton. A proud veteran, Richard honorably served in the United States Air Force during the Korean War from 1951 to 1955. His service to his country was just one example of his dedication to others. After his time in the military, Richard worked for Omaha Power Company, where he worked in the street light division. Later on he worked many years as a contractor delivering pharmaceutical prescriptions to customers until retiring.

He was preceded in death by his parents; his beloved wife, Saundra Jean Thornton; his daughters, Ronda Tye, Tammy Cox; his brother, Malcolm Thornton Jr.; and his sister, Betty Voger.

Richard is survived by his son, Michael Thornton of Collinsville, IL; his daughter, Jeanne Shadden of Omaha, NE; and son, Don Rowe of Omaha, NE. He will also be dearly missed by extended family and friends who were touched by his kindness and warmth.

A graveside service with military honors will be held at Forest Lawn Cemetery in Omaha, NE, on November 7, 2025.