A Time To Be Born Richard Allen Thornton, was born April 6, 1967 to Ruth Jennings Thornton and Charles Walker Sr. in Columbus, Ohio. Richard fondly known as “Turtleman” was the second eldest of 5 children.
A Time To Live Richard, attended Columbus Public Schools and graduated from East High School. After high school he worked in various fields including Front Desk Agent at Waterford Towers for many years and the YMCA of Central Ohio.
Richard, loved and assisted in the rearing of many family and friend’s children over the years and was affectionally known as Uncle Richard. He had a heart for young people and often encouraged them to strive to do their best and love themselves no matter what others thought of them.
Richard enjoyed spending time with family and friends and was the life of the party. You would always find him in the middle of the dance floor with a crowd watching him in amazement as he danced and moved across the floor.
Richard had a passion for decorating and interior design. He decorated for many family and friends over the years. He would put colors together you would never imagine and turned them into a masterpiece that was worthy enough to have shown in a magazine. Richard had an eye for style and fashion and would take pride in what he would wear. He was known for his cowboy boots and chaps.
A Time To Love Richard loved his family, Sisters, Patricia Thornton, Markita Walker; Brother, Ronald Thornton; Nephews, Eric Groce, Curmar Whitney, Curwan Whitney; Niece, Shimmar (Shimmy) Whitney; Aunt, Margaret Lee; Special Cousin, Erica Owens, Special Friends George Bell, Carla Dunn, Djinn Curtis and a host of other special Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and friends.
Preceded in death by Mother, Ruth Thornton; Father, Charles Walker Sr.; Brother, Charles Walker Jr.; Grandmother Bessie Jennings.
A Time To Depart Richard “Turtleman” Thornton flew softly into the arms of God on Saturday, July 3rd, 2021 where “He Made It Home To Rest”
Please revisit this page and pray for the Thornton family as they write the obituary for Richard.
PUBLIC Visitation 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM. Monday July 19, 2021 at MARLAN J. GARY FUNERAL HOME, THE CHAPEL OF PEACE EAST, 5456 E. Livingston Ave. (one block east of Noe Bixby, turn North on Lonsdale Rd.). Interment at Union Cemetery Association.
We would like to extend our condolences to the family. Continue to rely on God and know that he hears your prayers, because he cares for you. Thinking of you all.
Pat, Markeeta, and Ronald I’m thinking of you with Love during this difficult time in our lives. Turtleman will always be remembered for so many Funny and Good times.. Rest Well Richard with your Mom and Charlie . God Bless you… Thanks for the Hugs cuz
Richard aka Turtleman, I have always loved you and always will. Thank you for being you, thank you for the fun memories and good times. I always felt good in your presence. Thank you, my friend!!! To Pay, Markeeta and Ronald may God comfort you now and always. Long time friend, Michelle Jones. Love you!!
my heart is heavy at this time loosen my cousin Richard, you will not be forgotten along with the others that has left us behind rest in peace .
I WILL TRULY MISS YOU RICHARD, YOUR INFECTIOUS LAUGH AND SMILE, ENCOURAGMENT AND INSPIRATION, MOST OF ALL YOUR UNDYING FRIENDSHIP. THANK YOU FOR BEING A BLESSING IN MY LIFE, MAY YOU REST SAFELY IN THE ARMS OF JESUS, CONDOLENCES AND DEEPEST SYMPATHIES TO THE FAMILY, GOD BLESS.
Family, I cannot tell you how difficult these past few weeks have been. I am thankful I was able to see Richard the week before he passed. My heart is heavy and I sorrow but I do not sorrow as those who have no hope. Because one thing I know for sure is that Richard gave his life to Christ. So because of that, I am assured that I will see him again. I love each of you and pray God’s peace over you all.
Love Danielle Jenkins
Pat, Markita and Ronald I’m so sorry to hear of Turtleman passing. I pray that God gives you strength and healing in the lost of your sibling. I haven’t seen him in a long time, but I have always loved him and all of you as well. RIP Turtleman and God please comfort Pat, Markita and Ronald.
Pat, Markita, Ronald my heart breaks for you. Sending you love and prayers. Richard still truly be missed.
My sincere condolences to the family. Richard and his family have been intertwined with me and my family for over forty years. We are like family. I have very fond memories of Richard. May he RIP with the Lord.
I will miss him very much. I loved his style and I will remember when I last served him pancakes not too long before. My condolences to the family.