Obituary of Marie D. Thornton

Marie was born in Spokane, WA on January 3, 1933 to her parents James and Marie Dodson. She attended schools in Ephrata, Holy Names Academy (Spokane) and Washington State College. Marie met and later married William Thornton on August 30, 1952 in Ephrata, WA. After moving to Tacoma in 1961, Marie and Bill welcomed Terese (1961), Sean (1961) and Shannon (1965) into the family. Marie loved to "cut a rug", and with Bill would dance to big band music so beautiful that diners at the Elks would give them a round of applause. She was an expert seamstress, gourmet cook and could beat 'Mario' in a video game almost every time! She was particularly proud of being the first female draftsperson for the State Highway Dept, the family dog Jazzit achieving National Champion status, and Sean becoming a doctor. Following the WSU Cougars was her passion - GO Cougs! Marie had quick, a strong Irish temperament and an infectious laugh. Marie became increasingly frustrated in the last 2 years while her health deteriorated, as she had always been very independent. Fiercely proud, she became increasingly reluctant to share her smile and bright blue eyes, but her love for her family and friends remained undiminished. The cause of her illness and increasing weakness were never clear. But Marie died peacefully at home with her family by her side. Marie was preceded in death by her parents Jim and Marie Dodson, and Aunt Ella Wager. She is survived by her husband Bill, children Terese, Sean and Shannon, grandchildren Conley, Marissa and Brittany, and her many dear friends.