Elsie Marshall Thornton

Elsie Marshall Thornton, 96, of Edenton, NC, passed away on Thursday, March 6, 2025.

Mrs. Thornton was born in New Cumberland, WV in 1928. She was preceded in death by her husband of 52 years, Robert L. Thornton; and two daughters, Donna T. Leibel and Sheila T. Liles.

Surviving is her sister, Hope M. Carmines of Edenton; two sons, Terry Thornton (Karen) of Elizabeth City and Brent Thornton (wife, Nancy) of Winston Salem. Elsie was known by her five grandchildren as “Sunshine Grandma”, and they include Wesley Liles, Scott Liles, Melissa Griffey, Megan Overton, and Kelsey Cartwright (husband, Kevin). She also leaves behind six great-grandchildren, Taylor, Grace, Everly, Zane, Lilah and Jaylen.

A graduate from Elizabeth Buxton Nursing School in 1949, she spent her life taking care of others, having been a nurse for over 50 years. She retired from nursing in June 1996 and went on to teach classes for nursing aides until 1998.

In accordance with her wishes, no services are being planned.

Miller & Van Essendelft Funeral Home & Crematory, 735 Virginia Road, Edenton, is assisting the family with arrangements and online condolences may be made by visiting www.millerfhc.com.