Millie “Sissy” Emma Taylor Thornton, 73, passed away on October 19, 2026. She was born on June 26, 1953, in Liberty, Texas, to her parents, Gilbert Taylor Jr. and Ruth Lee Fregia.

Sissy was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother who cherished her family above all else. She was a resident of Tarkington, Texas, for 44 years and shared over 50 wonderful years of marriage with the love of her life, James “Jimmy” Thornton. Her greatest joy came from spending time with her family, and she never missed an opportunity to spoil her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her love for them was endless, and she treasured every moment they shared together.

Sissy had a fun-loving personality and enjoyed the little things that made life special. She had a love for all things cow print and anything with a little bling. She adored her cats and enjoyed spending time outdoors, whether she was hunting or tending to her beautiful flower beds. She also loved a good, ice-cold Coca-Cola straight from a glass bottle. These simple pleasures were just a few of the things that made Sissy so special to those who knew her. Above all, she loved her family wholeheartedly and found her greatest happiness in making sure those she loved were happy and cared for. Her memory will forever be cherished by the many lives she touched.

Sissy was preceded in death by her parents, Gilbert Taylor Jr. and Ruth Lee Fregia; her sister, Joyce Thain; her brothers, Gilbert Taylor, Gary Copeland, and Dudley Copeland; her daughter, Heather Thornton; and her stepson, Danny Edwards.

She is survived by her loving husband of over 50 years, James “Jimmy” Thornton; her sons, Cody Thornton and wife Shanna, and Lee Thornton and wife Virginia; her daughter, Trina Alfaro and husband BJ; her grandson, Christopher Thornton and wife Chasity; her great-grandchildren, Cayson and Cooper Thornton; her niece, April Hayes; and numerous other family members and friends who will miss her dearly.

A visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Pace-Stancil Funeral Home in Dayton, Texas. A funeral service will follow at 1:00 p.m. at the funeral home. Burial will follow at French Cemetery in Dayton, Texas.

Serving as pallbearers will be BJ Alfaro, Henry Thain, Christopher Thornton, Scooter Davis, Keith Noack, and April Hayes.