Diana Kay Thornton, 68, Rochester, passed away at 1:19 A.M. Saturday, Oct. 14, 2017, at her residence.

She was born on Aug. 29, 1949 in Denver, Colo., the daughter of Jack D. and Lois (Rinearson) Younglove. On Jan. 25, 1975 in Rochester, she married Richard Thornton and he survives.

Mrs. Thornton had been President of the Humane Society and had been a bartender at the American Legion Post, Eagles Lodge and Dam Landing. For numerous years, she had been a care giver for many families around the Rochester area. A dedicated animal lover, she was an active supporter of the Humane Society across the country. She had also been an active sponsor and supporter of Disabled American Veterans and had been a member of the Ladies Auxiliary of the American Legion and Eagles Lodge. In her leisure time, she enjoyed riding motorcycles, relaxing by her swimming pool, fishing, camping, cooking, bowling and was an accomplished billiard player.

Survivors include her husband, Richard Thornton, Rochester; children, Kellie Engle (John Thomas) Akron; Shellie (Scott) Colvin, Fort Collins, Colo.; Jerry Duane (Donald Gregory) Kreighbaum, Hobart; step-children, Richard (Sonya) Thornton II, Las Vegas, Nev.; Rachelle (Joe) Girard, Canyon, Texas; numerous grandchildren and great grandchildren, brother, Todd (Teresa) Younglove, Panama City, Fla. She was preceded in death by her father, Jack D. Younglove and mother, Lois Ross.

Friends may visit from 4-7 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2017 at Zimmerman Bros. Funeral Home, Rochester. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital, American Humane Society or the Center for Hospice and Palliative Care, South Bend.