Dr. Thornton’s father was in the U.S. Forest Service and the family moved frequently as he was growing up. They were stationed in California, Georgia, Mississippi, Tennessee, North Carolina and South Carolina. Dr. Thornton graduated from Aiken High School in Aiken, SC, before moving on to Emory and then Medical College of Georgia.
Dr. Thornton has three grown children who all live in the nearby area. He has two grandchildren, who help keep him busy in his spare time. His other interests include fly fishing, fly tying, photography, travel and most importantly, time with his family.