Joseph "Poppy" Clayton Thornton, Sr., 72, of Waldorf, MD died on November 5, 2015, with his family by his side. Born in Washington, DC Joseph is the son of the late Eleanor Marie (Fitzpatrick) Thornton and Albert Clayton Thornton.

Poppy grew up in Morningside, MD a small town in Prince George's county and graduated from Suitland High School. Joseph was an electrician for as long as his family can remember. He worked a majority of his lifetime fulfilling government contractual jobs.

In 1973, he met Kathleen Flynn and they got married in 1982. Family was the most important part of Poppy's life. He was his happiest when surrounded by his grandchildren and loved to cook for them on holidays. Poppy was a fisherman. He fished whenever his got the opportunity. He enjoyed the peace-filled serene waters and the qualities of being outdoors.

Besides his beloved wife of 33 years, Kathy Thornton, Poppy is survived by his dear children, James, Joseph, Jr. (Nora), John "Bubba", Kristy (Danny) and Christina; his devoted grandchildren, Brittany, Corey, Bubby, and Joseph III; his only great-grandson, Anthony; and brother-in-law Joe Watts. In addition to his parents, Joseph was predeceased by his only sister, the late Patricia Watts.

Friends may gather at Lee Funeral Home, Inc., 6633 Old Alexandria Ferry Road, Clinton, MD on Tuesday, November 10th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM. A funeral service will be held at the funeral home Chapel on Wednesday, November 11th at 11:00 AM. Interment in Trinity Memorial Gardens, Waldorf, MD. Arrangements provided by Lee Funeral Home.