Lex Eugene Thornton

Lex Eugene Thornton, age 66, of Nokesville, Virginia, passed away on January 17, 2017, after a long and courageous battle against cancer. His wife of thirty years, Anne, was at his side. Lex was born in Coalinga, California on January 13, 1951. He graduated from Taft High School and after service to his country, earned his Bachelors degree in Business. In 1971, Lex began his 15 year career in the United States Air Force as a Far East linguist. Lex served in the war in Vietnam and remained a passionate patriot throughout his life. After leaving the Air Force in 1986, Lex began his 25 year career as a defense contractor supporting the intelligence community, working for E-systems, L-3 Comm and Argon ST. He dedicated his working life to supporting the protection and defense of the country he loved. An avid golfer, Lex was a long time member of Evergreen Country Club, grasping any and all opportunities to be with his buddies on the golf course. His golf companions brought him years of good times and happy memories. Lex was a Harley lover, and enjoyed riding his bike in numerous Rolling Thunder events, as well as down every back country road and through any scenic small town he could find. His cat, Pete, gave him 24 years of companionship, sitting in his lap while they both watched sports on TV in the garage. Lex was most content with Pete curled up in his lap and tuned in to a football game or golf match. One of his many past times, Lex restored antiques in the late 80s/early 90s. He and Anne enjoyed going to auctions for those rare deals that Lex brought home and made beautiful. Many of his projects are still in use today at his home in Nokesville. Lex also owned and restored classic Mustangs, winning multiple car show honors and awards with his "stangs" (1964 1/2 and 1968). Lex is survived by his wife, Anne Thornton, his mother Pauline Thornton of Taft, Ca., his sister Linda Eaton of Benicia, Ca., two daughters, Jennifer Wood and Jessica White, both residing in Texas, and three grandchildren, Kayleigh, Nathan and Luke. Lexs' extended family will receive his friends and coworkers at Pierce Funeral Home, 9606 Center Street, Manassas, Va. on Thursday, January 26, 2017 from 4pm-8pm in the "party" room, to celebrate the life of a cherished husband, son, brother, father and friend. Lex would not have wanted flowers, but he did want a cure for cancer. Memorials in his name may be made to the National Cancer Institute, in the hope that the suffering caused by this horrible disease may soon come to an end. Director National Cancer Institute Building 31 Room 11A-16 9000 Rockville Pike

Lex Eugene Thornton

January 13, 1951 - January 17, 2017