Cynthia Rose Drake Thornton, 53, died Dec. 6, 2021 at Heron Cove in Gloucester, Va. Born May 31, 1968 to Francis and Dottie Drake, Cindy graduated from Bethany College, West Virginia, in 1980. For over 30 years, Cindy taught a variety of subjects and grade levels. She treasured her career in the classroom and was especially fond of her time at Gloucester’s Page Middle School. Cindy loved shaping students’ minds and making learning creative and fun, especially when it came to math. Music was another passion of Cindy’s. From playing the trumpet to singing in an a cappella group to organizing concert-going events, she shared her enthusiasm for music with family and friends. Growing up, Cindy was involved in sports, playing softball and running cross country.

In the ’90s, she participated in volleyball leagues at the Wellness Center. She played in a regular Bunco group for years and was always game for going and doing. Cindy had a contagious sense of humor; she prioritized having fun and enjoying life. She was also a huge prankster and never met a dare she wouldn’t take. Next to her family and teaching, Cindy’s biggest love was vacationing on North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Each year she would organize vacations for fellow teachers and friends; these friends would become her Beach family. Stories from those trips continue to be told again and again for the many happy memories that feature Cindy in both starring and supporting roles.

Cindy was preceded in death by her mother, Dottie; her father, Francis, and her husband, Willie Thornton. She is survived by her daughter, Abigail Thornton; her brother, Larry Drake (Mary Jane); her faithful Maltese companion, “Brodie,” and a host of friends who have become family over the years. The family will receive friends, Tuesday, Dec. 28, 2021, from 1-1:45 p.m. at Hogg Funeral Home, followed by a Celebration of Life service, in the chapel beginning at 2 o’clock, conducted by the Rev. Aaron West. Inurnment will be private. In memory of our loved one, contributions may be made to Thornton Family Cemetery, c/o the Snowdens, P.O. Box 236, Bena, Va. 23018 or Gloucester-Mathews Humane Society, P.O. Box 385, Gloucester, Va. 23061.

Services under the direction of Hogg Funeral Home.