Jason Michael Thornton, age 40, of Kansas City, MO, passed away Sunday, August 4, 2024, in his home. Jason was born on February 12, 1984, the son of Kevin Alan and Pamela Lee (Halberstadt) Thornton in Excelsior Springs, MO. Jason grew up in Excelsior Springs and lived most of his adult life in Kansas City, MO. He was married to Nicky Franklin of Liberty, MO, and together they raised his stepdaughter Malia Emery for 11 years. Jason was a Christian man and attended church services at Lathrop First Assembly of God.
Jason enlisted in the United States Marine Corps during wartime. He proudly served overseas during the Global War on Terror in Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his four years of service, Jason achieved the ranking of Corporal and he received numerous medals, ribbons, and badges for his sacrifices and achievements.
Jason will be remembered for his huge heart, bright warm smile, infectious laugh, and being a true friend. He had a life-long love of fishing and being outdoors. He had a deep passion and love for his country, his family, his friends, and our Lord and Savior – Jesus Christ. Jason will be greatly missed by all of those who loved him.
Jason was preceded in death by his father, Kevin Thornton; his nephew, Brycen Bates; and several grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins.
He is survived by his mother, Pam Swoboda (Halberstadt) and stepfather, Michael Swoboda, of Excelsior Springs, MO; sister, Melissa Thornton of Lathrop, MO; nieces and nephews, Kaytlen Wall (Bates) and Collin Wall of Holt, MO, Hayden Costello, and Aryanna Costello of Lathrop, MO, Zayne Costello of Kansas City, MO, and Luke Strickler of Ava, MO. Several aunts, uncles, cousins and other extended family members also survive.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the family to help with final expenses.
Visitation will be held at 1:00 p.m., Saturday, August 24, 2024 at Lathrop First Assembly of God in Lathrop, MO. Funeral services will begin at 2:00 p.m., immediately following the visitation. Following the funeral services, a luncheon will be held at the church. All are welcome to attend.
Arrangements in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
Pam, so sorry for your loss.
David Teat
