Joseph Kane Thornton passed away  from a motorcycle accident on Saturday, February 28th, 2026. Joe was born on Tuesday, July 25th,1978 in Springfield, Mo.

He is survived by one son, Jacob Thornton of Springfield, MO; mother, Debbie Cooper and husband, Don of Springfield MO; father Kirk Thornton and wife, Patti of Bolivar, MO; one sister, Rachel Clayton and husband, Dalton and their children, Dalen and Ralee of Licking, MO; his fiancé, Shayla Becker of Springfield MO; grandmother, Beverly Thornton of Springfield MO; grandfather, Frank Thornton of Stockton MO and many aunts, uncles, cousins and numerous friends.

Joe never met a stranger. Everyone he met was a friend. At a young age, Joe was really big into the Dukes of Hazard and at the age of 7 he had a 50cc 4 wheeler that he would ride on 2 wheels and he would use concrete blocks and plywood to make ramps to jump. He was fearless and stayed that way throughout his life.

He was a bricklayer since the age of 17 and was working for Dewitt/South Barnes in Springfield, MO. He loved his job and liked to show off his bricklaying skills. He was a big outdoorsmen and loved the woods. He liked fishing, hunting or just taking a hike or riding his motorcycle.

He had just recently accepted God into his life and was attending church. He became an organ donor on his last birthday and was able to save 3 people with his heroic decision after his death. Joe will be missed by so many but it gives me comfort knowing that he saved lives with his organ donation and that his big heart lives on in someone else.

Graveside services will be at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, March 11, 2026 at Rivermonte Memorial Gardens Cemetery with Pastor Todd Forman officiating. In case of bad weather, services will be conducted in our chapel.

A Celebration of Life will follow directly after graveside services at 3:00 P.M. at the Galloway Grill 4211 S. Lone Pine Ave. Springfield, MO 65804.

In lieu of flowers, the family request memorial donations be made to MRSA Survivors Network https://mrsasurvivors.org/

In silence, the heart is heard

In reflection, the shadows lift

Through the light, I feel you with me

At peace, I treasure the lives

Forever changed by yours