Garland Thornton, Jr., greatly loved husband, father, son and friend, passed from this plane on January 24, 2022 at 87 years of age at his home in Denton, Texas.

Garland was born in Littlefield, Texas on November 19, 1934, to Flora "Jude" and Wylie G. Thornton. He grew up there and graduated from Littlefield High School.

He graduated from Texas Tech in Lubbock with a degree in Finance. He remained a proud Red Raider to the end.

Banking was his career for more than 40 years. It carried him from Shallowater to Tahoka and on to Sweetwater, Denison and Arlington. He retired from GNB Sanger in 1999, where he served as president.

Garland met and married the love of his life, Luanne McNeill, at Texas Tech and they celebrated 64 years together. They have two daughters, Susan  and Blakeley.

He was active in church and civic affairs throughout his life. He was a longtime member of the First United Methodist Church of Denton. He was a member of the Denton and Sanger Chambers of Commerce where he also served as a board member. He was also a board member of the Denton County United Way, Chairperson of the Board of Service Programs for Aging Needs, Vice Chairman of the Sanger Library board, board member and Second Vice President of the Sanger Lions Club and board member of the First National Bank of Antlers, Oklahoma.

Garland loved golf, travel, reading, the mountains of New Mexico, Mexican food, having a nearly perfectly manicured lawn and his family and friends. Everyone remembers him for his height (6'4), his handsomeness, humor and kindness. He often remarked that his accomplishments were "pretty good for a country boy".

He is survived by his wife, Luanne, daughters Susan Thornton of Denton, Texas and Blakeley Warner along with her husband, Kim Warner of Bowie, Texas. He is also survived by his nieces Amy Wheeler (Craig) and Valerie Johnson, as well as great nieces, Sarah, Hannah and Maddie.

Donations in Garland's name may be made to Interfaith Ministries of Denton, First United Methodist Church of Denton or the charity of your choice.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.