Billy Gene "Turnip" Thornton

Billy Gene "Turnip" Thornton, age 80, of Mount Ida, passed away Friday, November 20, 2015. He was born on October 5, 1935, in Caddo Gap, the son of Cecil Thornton and Ruth Hubbert Thornton. He was preceded in death by his parents; and his brother-in-law, Mike O'Neal. He was a star basketball player for Caddo Gap High School and a member of Caddo Gap Baptist Church. He worked as a Clerk with Union Pacific Railroad for over 41 years until his retirement. He enjoyed fishing and dearly loved to go squirrel hunting with his dog, Nancy. He is survived by his son, L. G. Thornton of Sims; his sister, Paulette Thornton O'Neal of Mount Ida; his special nephew, Greg O'Neal of Mount Ida; and many wonderful friends. Graveside services will be held at 2:00 PM, Tuesday, November 24, 2015, in the Oak Grove Cemetery, near Caddo Gap, with Bro. Ray Young and Doyle Martin officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Oak Grove Cemetery Fund, c/o Doug Dumont, P.O. Box 44, Norman, Arkansas, 71960. Arrangements are under the direction of Davis-Smith Funeral Home, Glenwood. Guest registry is at www.davis-smith.com.