Dorothy M. "Dot" (Drew) Thornton

Dorothy Mary (Drew) Thornton, age 96 of Sanford, passed away peacefully on Saturday February 11, 2023 at her residence. The daughter of the late Harold "Pete" and Marion (Hough) Drew was born in Flint, Michigan on November 24, 1926. Dorothy graduated from Mount Morris High School in 1944. In 1945 she met her future husband, Dave Thornton in Sanford where her father purchased property from his father on Sanford Lake. They were married September 14, 1946 and went on to have 5 children that they raised on West River Rd.

Dorothy "Dot" started driving bus for Meridian Public Schools in 1963. She loved driving the kids to school and the school children on her bus loved her too. Dorothy had many wonderful memories and tales of her 25 year career of driving before retiring in 1988 at the age of 62.

Shortly after, she got involved in driving Meals on Wheels for the Sanford Senior Center and breading fish at Sanford lake Bar & Grill. Dorothy continued to go to the "Center" where she had enjoyed fun, friends and the many activities that were offered.

Christmas was a cherished holiday for Dot. She bought presents year-round for her children, grandchildren, her siblings and many friends. Dot was always thinking of others, and their wants and needs. She was kind, generous, helping, loving, and thoughtful.

Surviving are her children, Jean Harris of Rhodes, Patricia (Mark) Baringer of Sanford, Barbara Boman of Sanford, Ellen (Dan) Bisel of Beaverton; daughter in law, Christine (Jeff) Rau of Sanford; 12 grandchildren; 29 great grandchildren; 8 great-great grandchildren; sister, Marilyn Burwick; many nieces and nephews. In addition to her parents Dot was preceded in death by her husband, Dave; son, Dale; 4 brothers and 3 sisters.

A celebration of Dot's life will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. Thursday February 23, 2023 at the Edenville Seventh Day-Adventists Church. Family will receive guests at the church on Thursday from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service. Arrangements are under the care of Wilson MILLER Funeral Home.