Johnnie Mae Thornton

Mrs. Johnnie Mae Thornton, affectionately known as “Coot” and lovingly called “Aunt Yang-Yang” by family and friends, passed away peacefully on November 6, 2025, in Lawrenceville, Georgia. She was born on February 6, 1926, in Oakfield, Georgia, to the late Alberta Miller Lenton and John Lenton. Johnnie Mae was the third of eight children. She was preceded in death by her siblings Mildred, Sallie Mae, Thomas, Charles, and James, and is survived by her two loving sisters Ruby and Dorothy. At an early age, Johnnie Mae moved to Miami, Florida, where she pursued a long and fulfilling career as a private duty caregiver. Her compassionate spirit and strong work ethic touched countless lives, and she took great pride in caring for others with the same dedication and love she showed her own family. Johnnie Mae lived a long, full life marked by strength, love, and authenticity. She was known for her toughness and her tenderness — a woman who always spoke her mind but carried a heart full of compassion. Her loyalty was unwavering, her generosity unmatched, and her spirit genuine and true. To know her was to love her, and to be loved by her was a blessing. She was first united in marriage to Dewitt Lewis, and from that union came two children: the late John Henry Lewis and the late Melba Laverne Lewis-Allen (the late Nathaniel Allen). Later, she married Willie Milton Thornton, and together they were blessed with Edward Milton Thornton, Yvette Michelle Thornton-Daniels (Timothy J. Daniels), and stepdaughter Demetria Ann Thornton-Walker. Mrs. Thornton was a devoted Mother, Grandmother, Great-Grandmother, Aunt, Mother in Law, and friend. She leaves behind a host of beloved grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews who will continue to carry her legacy of love, honesty, and strength. Throughout her 99 years, Johnnie Mae embodied what it meant to live with purpose and grace. She was tough when life demanded it, gentle when others needed comfort, and always true to herself. Her presence lit up every room, and her words, sometimes sharp, always sincere left a lasting mark on those who heard them. Though she has transitioned from this life, her memory will live on in the hearts of those who loved her deeply. Her family takes comfort in knowing that she is reunited with her loved ones who went before her and that her spirit will forever guide and protect them. Rest well, Mrs. Johnnie Mae “Coot / Aunt Yang-Yang” Thornton. Your work here is done, and your love lives on.

Tributes

Johnnie Mae Thornton

January 6, 1926 - November 6, 2025