A time to be born - Deacon Joe Louis Thornton was born January 7, 1943 to the late Clayton and Caldonia Thornton in Shaw, MS. A time to be saved - Joe confessed Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior at an early age under the leadership of Rev. Brown. A time to learn - Joe received his education in Bolivar County School of Shaw, MS. A time to serve his country - Joe served four years in the Vietnam War for his country in the Army. A time to serve - He was a devoted Sunday School superintendent and deacon under the leadership of Pastor A.C. Gilmore. A time to Love - On October 23, 2003 Joe married Beatrice Lee until death did them part. A time to Die - Joe departed his earthly home to be with his heavenly father on December 3, 2014 in Washington County. He was preceded in death by his parents Clayton and Caldonia Thornton. Six siblings Ola B. Hopkins, Jessie B. Roach, Jimmie B. Thornton, George Thornton and Paul Roach.