News / Obituaries / Southampton Press / 1472915

Robert W. Thornton

Robert Will Thornton of Westhampton and Speonk, died at Peconic Bay Medical Center on Friday, June 19, of liver failure. He  was 48.

Born in New York City to Joan and John Thornton, he attended Riverdale Country School. The family spent summers in Quiogue, where Mr. Thornton came to love the beach, surfing, and fishing. His passion was gardening, and from an early age he made friends with local gardeners, which he parlayed into summer jobs during high school and college.

After graduating from the University of Colorado, he joined J-Wing Gardens in partnership with Johnny Ewing. Soon thereafter, he launched his own firm, RPM Landscape Design and grew a successful business in the local community. The firm continues under the direction of his longtime manager and loyal employees.

Mr. Thornton is survived by his parents, Joan and John Thornton; a daughter, Madison; a son, Ian; two brothers, Hugh and Christopher; a sister, Fenella; and his former wife, Ronni.

Interment was private.

A memorial service will be held on Saturday, July 18, at the Westhampton Presbyterian Church, at 4 p.m.

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Robert W. Thornton

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