Civel Ruth (Edwards) Thornton

Civel Ruth Edwards Thornton, age 94, of Jordan Chapel Road, Mt. Olive, passed away peacefully at her home on April 13, 2021.

Ruth was born on June 18, 1926, on her family’s farm in Wayne County and attended Grantham School.

She was preceded in death by her husband Melvin (Bill) Thornton, a son Sonny Dan Thornton, and a granddaughter, Tiffany Michelle Thornton, parents, William Bright Edwards and Louida Tew Edwards and her siblings; Frank Edwards, Thomas Edwards, Fred Edwards, Herbert Edwards, George Edwards, Albert M. Edwards and sister, Mae E. McCullen Baker.

Ruth is survived by her children, Avis T. Edmundson (Jim) of Clayton, NC, Curtis W. Thornton (Vesna) of Pittsboro, NC and Douglas E. Thornton (Emma Kay) of Wilmington, NC. She is also survived by grandchildren: Tammy Kornegay, Robert Thornton, Sonya Mendez, Michael Edmundson, Sarah Holder, Rachel Patterson, William Thornton, Kimberly Thornton, nine great-grandchildren, and three great-great-grandchildren.

She was a charter member of Friendly Holiness Church where she was a dedicated member for most of her life. She enjoyed the times she spent with fellow church members making quilts, preparing for Harvest Day, cooking for homecomings, and attending revivals, and many other occasions. Her faith was unwavering as she led by example with “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1)

Ruth could often be found listening to Southern Gospel Music while working away in the kitchen. She was known for the many southern dishes and desserts she prepared. She knew which ones were each child’s favorite and would often plan meals according to who may be visiting.

The family would like to express our appreciation for the excellent level of care and dedication by caregivers, Barbara Mallard, Christy Crawford, Pam Hamm, and Hospice nurses. Special appreciation to Janet Bradford who considered Ruth her second mama and provided loving care for several years.

Graveside service for family and friends will be held at Wayne Memorial Park in Goldsboro on Monday, April 19, 2021, at 2:00 pm with Rev. Carlton Moore officiating.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Friendly Holiness PFWB Church C/O Rosemary Moore, 1298 S. Jordan’s Chapel Road, Mt. Olive, NC 28365.

Per the NC COVID Law, masks must be worn during all services and social distancing measures practiced at all times during all services.

Services Entrusted to West and Dunn Funeral Home of Newton Grove, NC.

Condolences can be made to www.westanddunn.com