Judith Thornton

Rutland – Judith A. Thornton

Judith Ann Thornton 80 died Thursday evening December 18, 2025 at the Meadows at East Mountain in Rutland.

She was born January 26, 1945, in Rutland, the daughter of Neil and Shirley (Crossman) Tinker. She was a member of the 4H Club and participated in the Apple Blossom Cotillion. Judy was a graduate of Rutland High School, class of 1963. After graduation she attended O’Brien’s Cosmetology School.

She married her childhood sweetheart, Kenneth Thornton, on August 22, 1964. Together they raised their family on Kingsley Ave in Rutland. In 1992 she received her certification from Electrology School and began her own Electrology business.

After retirement you could find Judy and her little dog, Gracie, in her flower garden, traveling, interior decorating, and cooking for family gatherings. She belonged to the Red Hat Society and was a proud supporter of many local organizations including: The Women’s Shelter, Genesis Activities Department, and Turning Point. Judy will be forever remembered with a cup of coffee in her hand and a smile on her face. Her endless generosity and care for others will carry on through her beloved family and friends.

Survivors are her children, Dawn Marie Howlett (Steve), of Mount Holly, Deborah Ann Clough (Mark), of Proctor, and Kenneth Neil Thornton, of Rutland. Her brother Robert Tinker (Suzanne), and sister Melody Hemingway (Charles). Her grandchildren, Derek Blow (Sarah), Ryan Blow, and Sarah Clough. And great- grandchildren, Brielle Blow and Bently Rose.

She was predeceased by her parents and by her husband Kenneth Thornton.

A Memorial service will be held on Tuesday, December 30th at Grace Congregational United Church of Christ Chapel. Family and friends may call from 11:00am -12:00pm, with a service immediately to follow. Burial will take place at a later date at East Clarendon Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers contributions can be made in memory of Judith Thornton to the Foley Cancer Center, RRMC, 160 Allen St., Rutland VT 05701.

Arrangements are under the direction of Clifford Funeral Home.