Dorothy Bell Thornburg

With profound love and gratitude for her life, the family of Dorothy Bell (Reynolds) Thornburg announces her peaceful homegoing on Thursday, March 5, 2026. Surrounded by the tender care of her family at Highland Park Healthcare Center in Okmulgee, Oklahoma, Dorothy entered the arms of her Heavenly Father and Savior, receiving the eternal rest she so faithfully looked forward to.

Born on August 14, 1930, in Dardanelle, Arkansas, to Claude Reynolds and Minnie Bell (Watkins) Reynolds, Dorothy lived a life marked by compassion, devotion, and a steadfast love for God. Her gentle spirit and nurturing heart were evident in all she did. She was a woman who truly put God first, and her faith was the foundation of her life.

Dorothy found joy in the simple and beautiful things God created. She loved flowers and could often be found in her garden tending to the blooms she cherished. She delighted in watching birds, spent peaceful hours admiring her aquarium fish, and expressed her creativity through sewing. Singing brought her great joy, and she treasured every moment spent in the house of the Lord. She was a devoted member of the United Pentecostal Church in Wagoner, Oklahoma, where her praises rose joyfully and sincerely. Her Bible was her constant companion, and she shared God’s Word with anyone who needed comfort, encouragement, or hope.

She was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Claude and Minnie Reynolds; her husband, JR Thornburg; her son, Bobby Joe Thornburg; her brothers, Shirley Reynolds and Bobby Reynolds; and her sister, Ruby Whitehead.

Dorothy’s legacy of love continues through those who remain to cherish her memory: her children, Jacky Ray Thornburg of Okay, Oklahoma; Dorothy Marie Wilson and husband Randy of Louisiana, and Ladonna Deason and husband Michael of Louisiana. She is also survived by 15 grandchildren, numerous great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward for generations to come. Her siblings, Jerry Wayne Reynolds and wife Shirley of Okay, Oklahoma, and Joe Reynolds and wife Wanda of Okay, Oklahoma, along with a host of nieces and nephews, also hold her dear in their hearts.

Dorothy’s life was a testimony to her unwavering faith, her boundless love, and her gentle strength. Though her presence will be deeply missed, the light she brought into the lives of others will continue to shine brightly. Her family rejoices knowing she now rests safely in the eternal embrace of her Savior, where joy has no end, and love is everlasting.

“She went peacefully here, but hit the ground running there.”

The family will greet friends at a Visitation on Sunday, March 8, 2026, from 3-5 pm in the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home.

The funeral service to celebrate her life will be held on Monday, March 9, 2026, at 10 a.m. in the Chapel of Mallett Funeral Home and Crematory, Wagoner, Oklahoma. Reverend Timothy Deason will officiate.

The family of Dorothy Thornburg has entrusted her care, services, and interment to Mallett Funeral Home and Crematory, 417 East Cherokee Street, Wagoner, Oklahoma, 74467. 918-485-2911