In Loving Memory of Jack Verdon Thorne.

 Jack Verdon Thorne, age 86, passed away peacefully on July 16, 2026. Born on December 3, 1939, in Port St. Joe, Florida, Jack lived a life marked by faith, hard work, integrity, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Jack was preceded in death by his parents, Jack C. Thorn and Grace Thorne; his beloved son, Jack V. Thorne Jr.; and his siblings, Mavis Foster, Olin Thorne, Jackie Brooks, Peggy Sue Buzzett, Jennifer Burns, and Ruby Cadenhead. He is survived by his devoted wife of 57 years, Diana Manley Thorne; his children, Daryl (Gina) Thorne, Cynthia (Rick)Long, and Beckie Thorne Corbitt. He also leaves behind five cherished grandchildren: Blakley Tindale(Dennis) Dalton Thorne (Brooke), Allie Davis (Mitchell), Rachel Marlin(Justin), and Shaun Allen. Jack was especially proud of his six great-grandchildren: Colton and Emerie Tindale, Saylor and Wren Davis, and Hadley and Audrey Thorne. He is also survived by his sisters and brother: Betty Sue Lee, Margaret Boring Barlow, Joyce (Albert)Waters, Randall (Yvonne)Thorne, Teresa Redd, and Rebecca(Rev.Ralph) Adams, along with many nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will miss him greatly. Jack proudly served his country in the United States Army. Throughout his career, he worked as a crane operator and boilermaker, with many other jobs to keep food on the table and support his family before becoming the owner of J & D Towers and Jack Thorne Crane Rental. He was a “Jack of All Trades” known for his exceptional work ethic, skill, and dedication, earning the respect of everyone who had the privilege of working for him or alongside him. Jack made his home in both Ocala, Florida, and Hurtsboro, Alabama. Outside of work, he found his greatest joy in spending time with his family and church family, fishing and then hunting deer, and traveling throughout the United States after he retired. As An avid outdoorsman, he treasured every opportunity to be in the woods,cultivate the food plots, just be on “the land” and created countless memories with family and friends through his love of deer hunting.

Faith was the foundation of Jack’s life. He was a proud 32nd Degree Mason and a faithful member of Cornerstone Ocala and The Pentecostals of Phenix City. He faithfully served on the church board and was always willing to lend a helping hand wherever he was needed. He Served many years on the FL District Campgrounds, running the concession stand and “night- time round up” for many of the Camps over several summers. Many affectionately knew him as the “campgound bouncer.” Which carried over into His home church where he always kept a watchful eye on the children, and if someone made one too many trips out of the sanctuary, they just might find themselves sitting back down with their parents. Don’t even think about wearing a hat in church if you where a man, he’d let you know it needed removed And if the sermon happened to run a little long, you could often hear him gently shaking his keys—a lighthearted signal that never failed to bring a smile to those who knew him. His playful spirit, quiet sense of humor, and genuine love for his church family made him a familiar and beloved presence each Sunday and Wednesday.

Those who knew Jack will remember his quiet strength, dependable nature, generous heart, and deep love for his family. He was a devoted husband, a loving father, a proud grandfather and great-grandfather, and a loyal friend. His wisdom, God given Common Sense, guidance, and steadfast faith touched the lives of everyone who knew him. One of his most cherished traditions was calling the special people in his life on their birthdays to sing “Happy Birthday.” It was a simple but heartfelt gesture that brought smiles year after year and made each person feel remembered and loved. Those phone calls became a treasured tradition that family and friends will miss, but they will forever remember the warmth, joy, and thoughtfulness behind every song. Though he will be deeply missed, his family finds comfort in knowing that his legacy of faith, love, hard work, and service will live on through the many lives he influenced. His memory will forever remain in the hearts of those who were blessed to know and love him.

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23 P.S. He had many names he’d answer to like: Brother Jack, Dad, Daddy, PawPaw, Papa Jack, and even Pops His family called him “Jack Junior ” He often ended a call saying “its Ole’ J. T. “and in his later years, he’d say “it’s just J. J.” What ever you called him just…..just don’t call him late for super. “Let’s get to getting it” …..”J.J.”

Baldwin Brothers Funeral and Cremation Society extends our condolences to the family.