1984

Worshipful Joseph Francis Thornton

Initiated: 5/20/1963, Passed: 7/1/1963, Raised: 7/15/1963 (Atlantic Lodge No. 2) Member, Norfolk Scottish Rite: 1965 Affiliated, Kempsville Lodge No. 196: 1975 Member, Khedive Shrine: 1975 Director, Khedive Hillbillies: 2002 Trustee, Kempsville Lodge: 2005 - 2023 Life Member in Perpetuity: 2009 More 60-Year Veteran: 2023 Entered the Celestial Lodge: 5/13/2025

Lodge Officers

Photos courtesy of Worshipful Joe Thornton

Commemorative Coffee Cup

The Ashlar - January 1984

Official Visit of the District Deputy Grand Master - March 13, 1984

Achievement Award

Official Visit of the Grand Master - June 12, 1984

Courtesy of Worshipful Joe Thornton

Letter From District Deputy Grand Master - November 24, 1984

Inscription in Masonic Bible from Brother Milton Harrell

Thanks Brother Milton for inviting me to Kempsville Lodge, the Shrine and the Hillbillie Unit. It all changed my life forever and brought me an abundance of friends and Brothers I could never have dreamed of. Through this Masonic fraternity, I have found the true meaning of fellowship and Brotherhood. Thank you again and may God bless.

Sincerely,
Your friend and Brother.
Joe Thornton

Past Masters Certificate and Wallet Card

Notable Visitor

Obituary

Joseph F. Thornton passed away peacefully on May 13, 2025, in Chesapeake, VA, at the age of 85. Born on September 11, 1939, in Norfolk, VA, Joe lived a full and vibrant life, touching the hearts of all who knew him. Joe dedicated his professional career to public service, retiring after 38 years as a Revenue Officer with the Internal Revenue Service. Before his tenure at the IRS, he worked at the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, where he began building the foundation of a long and distinguished career. He also served his country proudly as a member of the United States National Guard.

A man of many passions, Joe loved to feed the hummingbirds and cherished his time at Carova Beach, reveling in the warmth of the sun and the beauty of the outdoors. As an only child, Joe found immense joy in spending time with his in-laws and extended family. Joe was a devoted member of the Kempsville Masonic Lodge #196 AF and AM for 60 years, where he had received his 50-year pin. He was also an active member of the Khedive Shrine Temple and the Hillbillies Unit, sharing his talent for playing the guitar and singing. Additionally, he was a proud member of the Chesapeake Masters Gardeners Club, where he nurtured his love for gardening.

Joe is survived by his loving wife, Maureen M. Thornton; his son, John F. Thornton of Chesapeake, VA; his daughter-in-law, Trisha Watts; and his cherished granddaughters, Mackenzie and Avery, who will forever hold his memory dear in their hearts.

Lodge Of Sorrow

• Jim Nevel Nicks - 02/10/1984
• James Lyle Mann - 02/18/1984
• William Gilbert Harris - 04/01/1984
• Allan Gilford McLellan - 07/13/1984
• W∴ Levi Harold Jackson - 08/22/1984
• Daniel Howard Evans - 10/26/1984

Roster Cover

Newsletters