Wanda June Thornton

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Wanda J Thornton, who went home to God on June 10, 2025, at the age of 84. She passed away peacefully, surrounded by her daughter, Cheryl; son-in-law, Steven; and eldest granddaughter, Jillian. Wanda lived a life full of purpose and passion. She and her husband, Donald Thornton, owned and operated Pine Grove Campground and Waterfowl Park on Chincoteague for more than fifty years. Over the years, she touched countless lives through her time in local politics, serving as a member of the Chincoteague Town Council for seven and a half years. In 1996, she was elected to the Accomack County Board of Supervisors. She served two one-year terms as board chairwoman during her twenty years there before retiring. Wanda also served on the Chincoteague Chamber of Commerce, where she was named Outstanding Business Person of the Year in 2002. Wanda served on numerous boards and commissions throughout the years, including at the state level. She served as Vice Chairwoman of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel Commission and the Delmarva Water Transport Commission. She also served as a member of the Virginia Eastern Groundwater Advisory Committee, the Virginia Soil and Water Conservation Board, and the Chesapeake Bay Advisory Committee.

Wanda will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her and will forever be remembered for her willingness to fight for the people she represented and loved. Wanda is survived by her daughter Cheryl Merritt (Steven) of Virginia Beach VA; her stepchildren, Roxanne Bowman (Skip), John Neal Thornton and Donnie Thornton all of Chincoteague VA; her grandchildren, Jillian Merritt of Virginia Beach VA, Noah Merritt (Rachel) of Lago Vista TX; Leigha Hamilton of Hampton VA and Katie Fitzgerald (Jimmy) of Newport News VA along with numerous great grandchildren. A Special Remembrance for Valerie Abbott, Nancy Light, Robin Childress, and the rest of her West Virginia family. She was predeceased by her husband, Donald Ray Thornton, and daughter Audrey Leigh Howard. She leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and inspiration that will continue to resonate with all those fortunate enough to have known her. A private family service was performed on June 12, 2025, where she was laid to rest beside her husband, Donald. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to Joshua House Ministries, 38140 Millsboro Hwy, Millsboro, DE 19966. May Wanda's soul rest in eternal peace, and may she forever remain in our hearts. Services entrusted to Salyer Funeral Home, Inc., on Chincoteague Island, VA. Condolences may be made online at www.salyerfh.com

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