Gary Dean Thorn

Gary Dean Thorn, 70 of Marion, passed away peacefully in his home surrounded by his family on Friday, March 6, 2020. Gary was born February 10, 1950 in Woodriver, Illinois to James Ira and Georgia Helen (Livers) Thorn. Gary grew up in Lick Creek and was a 1968 graduate of Anna-Jonesboro High School. He continued his education at Shawnee Community College and later at SIU-C. He served his country honorably with the United States Army. Gary married Blanche Marie Burns on April 19, 1969 at the Jonesboro Pentecostal Church. Together they have share over 50 years of marriage. Gary retired in 2006, having been employed by E.T. Simonds Construction as a field mechanic for many years. He was a man that could fix anything. Whether with his hands or sense of humor. He had many hobbies such as working on old cars, flying remote control planes and drones. He was also a collector of many things. He loved spending time with his family, especially his grandkids. He had a great sense of humor and always liked to make someone laugh. Survivors include his wife, Blanche M. Thorn of Marion; two daughters, Deana (Jason) Englebright of Johnston City, Kimberly (Mark) Dimock of Johnston City; one son, Micah (Katie) Thorn of Carterville; eight grandchildren, Haley (Justin) Muniz, Erin Englebright, Emily, Madilyn and Ava Thorn, Tucker and Holden Dimock; two brothers, Ron (Carolyn) Thorn of Makanda and Larry (Angie) Thorn of Anna. He is also survived by several nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Terry Wayne Thorn. Funeral services will be 3:00 p.m., Sunday, March 8, 2020 at Pyle Funeral Home in Johnston City with Phillip Schlag officiating. Interment will follow in Herrin City Cemetery. Military honors will be accorded by the Herrin American Legion Post #645, Herrin VFW Post#1567, Carterville Post #347 and along with members of the Illinois National Guard Military Honors Ritual Team Visitation will be 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Sunday at the funeral home. Pyle Funeral Home in Johnston City is entrusted with the arrangements. Memorial contributions may be made to the family to help offset funeral expenses. Memorial envelopes are available at the funeral home. For additional information or to sign the book of memories, please visit www.pylefuneralhome.com.