David Allen Thornton, 74, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, March 13, 2025. He was born on July 17, 1950 in Columbus, Georgia, the son of Lew and Annie Thornton. He graduated from David T. Howard High School in Atlanta, Georgia in 1968. He served in the Army from 1971 to 1973. David earned an Associate of Science degree from Atlanta Junior College in 1977, a B.S. in 1979 from Georgia State University, a M.B.A. from The University of Phoenix in 1992, and a Ph.D. in Business Administration/Management from Walden University in 1995.
David began his career with Southern Bell Telephone Company immediately after high school as a lineman in outside plant construction. He later joined AT&T Network Systems and held several management positions. He retired from Lucent Technologies as a Sales Director for Europe, Middle East and Africa after 35 years of service with the Bell/AT&T companies. He subsequently taught business management at several local colleges including Metropolitan State University until 2019.
David is survived by his wife of 34 years, Georgia Beckerman-Thornton. His first marriage to Mattie Thomas ended in divorce. He is survived by his daughter from his first marriage, Mahalia, granddaughters Mishael, Pamela, and Grace, and great granddaughter Miracle Rosa. He was preceded in death by his parents, three half-brothers, and brother Eugene.
He loved riding his Harley Davidson motorcycle and enjoyed many adventures and trips with Georgia. David was a man of great character who was kind and genuine with a wonderful sense of humor. He was a snappy dresser and one cool cat! He will be fondly remembered and deeply missed by all who knew him. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Alzheimer’s Association.