Robert Thornell, Sr., 61, of Fred, died Saturday, April 16, 2011, at Harbor Hospice in Beaumont, with his family by his side.  Born October 9, 1949 to Arvilla Mae Mize and R.C. Thornell, he was a lifelong resident of Port Arthur until 2009, when he moved to Fred.  Robert proudly served his country in the United States Marine Corps, Mike Company, 3/7 1st Marine Division, Vietnam from 1968 to 1969.  He worked in the Industrial painting business for many years with Brock Services, formerly known as Service Painting for twenty-seven years and PPM for six years. Robert was an avid lover of boxing and was a member of Golden Gloves Boxing Association, and also boxed during his service in the Marine Corp.  He was involved, along with his children, in Port Arthur baseball and softball leagues from 1997 to 1989.  Robert was also a member of the VFW and donated his time and resources to the restoration efforts towards the Veterans Memorial Park. He had the most and greatest love for his children, grandchildren, and family, above all else.

Robert leaves behind his wife of forty-two and a half years, Sheridan Thornell of Fred; children, Melissa Romero of Port Neches, Carrie Thornell of Lumberton, Stacey Woodard of Groves, and Robert Thornell, Jr., of Silsbee; grandchildren, Bryce and Baylee Romero, A.J. and Maranda Estrello, Shae and Hayden Woodard, and Adley and Riley Thornell.

His funeral service will be 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, 2011, at Broussard’s, 505 12th Street, Nederland, with burial to follow at Greenlawn Memorial Park in Groves.  A gathering of his family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., Tuesday, April 19, 2011, at Broussard’s.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the V.F.W.,710 Main Street, Groves, Texas 77619, the American Cancer Society, P.O. Box 5144, Beaumont, Texas 77726, or the American Heart Association, P.O. Box 7015, Beaumont, Texas 77726.