Gary Thornburg

Gary Wayne Thornburg, age 82, of Cherryville, passed away Thursday, May 26, 2022, at his residence.  He was born September 15, 1939, in Lincoln County to the late Clarence Virgil Thornburg, Sr. and Bonnie Fulbright Thornburg.

Gary was an adventurous traveler and took many trips with his wife, Phyllis. He was an avid golfer and played in many local tournaments. He and Phyllis also traveled for play dates for monthly CGA tournaments for couples.  He also enjoyed playing in the Carolina Golf Association during many events. He also loved to read and would read as many as four books per week from the Cherryville Library. He was retired as a Mail Carrier for United States Postal Services. Gary was a long-time member of First United Methodist Church where he taught the Men’s Bible Class.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Mazel Cody, Ponese Heavner and Peggy Garner; and brothers, C.V., Pete, Hal and Max Thornburg.

Survivors include his wife of nearly 63 years, Phyllis Heafner Thornburg; sons,  Kevin Thornburg and fiancé, Rose Ellen Sain, and Kirk Thornburg and wife, Hope; grandchildren, Trent Thornburg and wife, Chelsea, Nate Thornburg, and wife Kayla, Hunter Sawer, Harlee Austin, and Haven Austin; great-granddaughters, Ava, Raelyn, Laikynn Mae, and Addilyn Rose.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, May 28, 2022, at 11:00 AM at First United Methodist Church with Rev. Zack Christy officiating.  Burial will be private.  The family will receive friends Saturday from 10:00 to 10:45 AM prior to the service at the church.

Memorials may be made to First United Methodist Church at 601 N Pink St, Cherryville, NC 28021

Condolences may be made to www.carpenterporter.com