MEBANE - Harold L. Thornton, age 68, passed away on May 14th at his home, after battling cancer for several months. He was a much-loved father, grandfather, son, brother, and husband. He was born on January 13, 1944 in Mebane, N.C. and spent much of his life in his hometown. Harold graduated from Mebane High School, then joined the Navy and honorably served for four years. Upon returning home, he attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, then transferred to Elon College, where he graduated with a B.A. in English and Political Science in 1973.

Harold was a successful businessman in the community -- he started several businesses, then once up and running, sold them to others. His last endeavor, and most rewarding, was a joint business venture with his son, Brad. Harold loved attending plays, and one would often find him listening to the music of many Broadway shows. He also loved to travel. At age 65, he decided to move to Thailand for a year. All who knew him would agree that he lived a very full life.

Harold is survived by his wife, Maneerat Thornton; daughter, Jill Auditori and husband, Rob; son, Brad Thornton; daughter, Meredith Albright; sister, Iris Johnson and husband, Richard; brother, Herb Thornton and wife, Lucindy; sister, Anice Anderson and husband, Bond; sister, Rose Marie Driscoll and husband, Charlie; former wife, Joy Albright; three grandchildren; and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his father, Herbert, and mother, Maude.

One of Harold's most-loved last outings -- occurring the day after Thanksgiving -- was to DPAC with the family for the Rockette's Christmas Spectacular. The event was followed by eating Thanksgiving leftovers at his former wife's home, joined by his wife, children, and grandchildren. It was his perfect day.

A celebration of Harold's life will be held on Wednesday, May 16th at 1 p.m. at Hebron United Methodist Church, Mebane, N.C. Interment will immediately follow at the cemetery located on the church grounds. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to Hospice of Alamance/Caswell or the UNC Cancer Center.