Obituary of Priscilla A. "Pat" Thornton

Priscilla A. “Pat” Thornton, passed away peacefully in her 101 year in her home of 68 years with her children at her side on Saturday, February 24, 2024.  Pat was born in Somerville.  She was one of two daughters born to Leonard and Marjorie Clark.  She grew up in Somerville and was a graduate of Somerville High School.  She married William Thomas Thornton in 1951.  Shortly after, they found their forever home in Burlington.  It was there that they would raise their three children, work, join in the community, and become active in their church.

Pat’s faith was a driving force in her life.  She was a faithful and active member of Saint Malachy Church since its opening in 1963.  Religious education, both as teacher and director, Morgairs, church socials and a daily mass attendee would only scratch at her love and involvements at Saint Malachy’s. Her most fulfilling ministry was being a Eucharistic Minister, especially when she served the patients at Lahey Hospital for over 25 years.

She loved working at Café Escadrille her 10 years, being with co-workers and being part of planning events brought her so much joy.  It was a sad day for her when she retired at the young age of 91.

Pat’s biggest joy was her family.  She was the loving wife to her husband for 46 years until his passing in 1997.  She was a wonderful mother to her three children.  She was caring, supportive, and loving.  She was a strong role model, a source of strength, and loved sharing time with them all.  Family and friends will remember Pat for her thoughtfulness, kindness, faithfulness, and being a person of love.

Pat was the beloved wife of William T. Thornton.  She was the loving mother of William C. Thornton (Kathy) of Melrose, Stephen P. Thornton of Burlington, and Carole J. Thornton of Woburn.  She was the proud grandmother of Rebecca Thornton of Wakefield and Ashley Ackerman & her husband Matthew of Lynnfield and great grandmother of William T. Ackerman.  She was predeceased by her sister, Barbara J. White.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday, February 28 at 10 a.m. at St. Malachy Church in St. Veronica Parish, 99 Bedford St., Burlington at 10 a.m.  (please go directly to the church), A burial at Pine Haven Cemetery, Burlington will follow.  In lieu of flowers, memorials in Pat’s name may be made to Saint Veronica’s Parish/Saint Malachy Church, 99 Bedford Street, Burlington, MA 01803