Robert L. "Bobby" Thornberry, age 80 and a lifelong resident of Elwood, passed awayTuesday, Sept. 5, 2017 at Community Parkview Care Center in Elwood following a brief illness and a long life of smiles.  He was born on February 10, 1937 in Elwood, the son of Charles L. and Mary (Courtney) Thornberry.  Bobby worked at Red Gold and Fettig's Canning Companies as a janitor for over 30 years and retired in 2001.  He was a member of the Central Wesleyan Church in Elwood where he enjoyed worship with his church family.  Bobby was best known for being Elwood's official "Bell Ringer" for the Salvation Army every year at Christmas time for over 40 years at the Elwood K-Mart store.  He loved this annual task, and took great pride in his ringing and interactions with shoppers.  He received the Elwood Samaritan Heart Award in 2008 for all his dedication and efforts for the Salvation Army.  He and his sister, Clara, were often seen walking around town, and Bobby never met a stranger.  Bobby was formerly honored to be the parade marshal for the Elwood Fourth of July Parade in 2001, and also Master Elf of the First Annual Christmas Parade in 2012.  He will be remembered for loving to be with his family and always having a smile on his face.

Bobby's family includes 2 brothers, Charles E. Thornberry of Elwood and George (wife Marilyn) Thornberry of Elwood; sister, Clara D. Thornberry of Elwood; special niece and caretaker, Norma (husband Lance) Baker of Elwood; several nieces and nephews; and several great-nieces and great-nephews.  Bobby was preceded in death by his parents; and sister-in-law, Mary Thornberry in 2011.

A funeral service celebrating Bobby's life will be conducted at 11:00 am on Monday, September 11, 2017 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with Pastor Ben Capshaw of the Central Wesleyan Church in Elwood officiating.  Burial will follow in the Elwood City Cemetery in Elwood.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 3 to 7 pm on Sunday, September 10, 2017 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home.  The Salvation Army will conduct a brief memorial service at 6 pm on Sunday evening at the funeral home.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Central Wesleyan Church or the Salvation Army through the funeral home.  Online expressions of condolence may be made at copherfeslermay.com.