Betty Lou Thornton, 89, of Fayetteville, passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 20, 2025, surrounded by her loving family.

Born on October 10, 1935, in Darnell, Louisiana, Betty was the daughter of the late Volice and Lula Tuggle. She made Fayetteville her home for over 60 years and dedicated more than three decades to educating the youth of Cumberland County as a high school mathematics teacher.

Outside the classroom, Betty found great joy in tending to her yard and garden. She was also an avid seamstress and enjoyed crocheting. Her greatest joy, however, was spending time with her family—especially her daughter. Whether visiting or taking day trips to Smithfield for shopping, Betty cherished every moment.

She was married to the love of her life, William Thornton, with whom she shared 40 wonderful years before his passing in 2003. Together, they traveled extensively across the United States after William's retirement, creating lasting memories along the way.

A woman of deep faith, Betty was a devoted member of Westminster Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville for more than 30 years.

She is survived by her daughter, Robin Williams (George); her son, Michael Thornton (Anita); her sister, Ann Powell; brothers, Terry Tuggle and Bud Tuggle; as well as numerous grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her beloved husband, William, and four of her siblings.

A memorial service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, August 8, 2025, at Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Lafayette Memorial Park West.

Online condolences may be shared at www.jerniganwarren.com .

Arrangements entrusted to Jernigan-Warren Funeral Home, 545 Ramsey Street, Fayetteville, NC 28301