David Thornton

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of David Thornton, Sr., age 81, of Vian, Oklahoma, who departed this life on February 25, 2026. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, and dedicated public servant, David's life will be celebrated during a funeral service at 11:00 AM on Monday, March 2, 2026, at The Crossing Church in Gore. Following the service, he will be laid to rest at Garden of Memories Cemetery in Vian, with arrangements entrusted to Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Service, Inc.

David was born on August 30, 1944, in Susanville, California, to Kati Lucile (Montgomery) Thornton and Frank Alexander Thornton, Sr. He married the love of his life, Gladys Marie (Craghead) Thornton, on December 31, 1963, in Sallisaw, Oklahoma. Over his distinguished career, David served as Tenkiller State Park Superintendent for 26 years and was a Cherokee Nation Tribal Councilman for 18 years. He also worked as a consultant for Cherokee Nation Businesses for 12 years, illustrating his unwavering commitment to the people he served. His dedication to the Cherokee Nation was only rivaled by his profound love for his family.

David is survived by his devoted wife, Gladys; their two sons, David Thornton, Jr. of Vian, OK, and James Thornton, Sr. and wife Angela of Vian, OK; as well as his cherished grandchildren, Kati and Jared, David III and Briana, Alexus and Cole, James Jr., Josi, Olivia, Carter, Kennedye, Beau, Haven, Harlow, Titus, Gunner, and Emma. He is also remembered fondly by numerous other relatives and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his siblings, including one sister, Mary Catherine Thornton, and one brother, Frank Thornton, Jr.

Active pallbearers honoring David's memory will include Rob Boyd, Chad Ellis, Anthony Bailey, Chris Peoples, Steven Barnes, and Dennis Fletcher. Honorary pallbearers will be Danny Carter, Jim McLaughlin, Steve Carter, Roy Simmons, Butch Cowart, Chuck Garrett, Steven Barrick, Bill John Baker, Joe Crittenden, Deputy Chief Bryan Warner, and Chief Chuck Hoskins, Jr..

Viewing will be at Agent Mallory Martin Funeral Home in Sallisaw on Saturday from 10 AM - 6 PM and Sunday from 2 PM - 8 PM, with a special time to greet the family from 4 PM - 6 PM on Sunday.

David Thornton will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and dedication will continue to inspire all who knew him.