James "Jim" Cleveland Thornburg

James “Jim” Cleveland Thornburg died peacefully in his sleep on May 21, 2022, at Robin Johnson Hospice House.

He was born in Gaston County to the late Delbert Thornburg and Connie Azelea Duncan Thornburg. In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother Keith Thornburg and his loving wife of 64 years, Frances Estelle Hedgepath Thornburg.

Jim was an avid golfer most of his life and was the Golf Pro at both Gallagher Trails (Briar Creek) and then at Green Meadows Golf Course. He enjoyed sharing his vast golf knowledge and expertise as well as building clubs for anyone interested in the game. He even had 11 hole-in-ones over his lifetime. He loved spending time with his family and grandkids. He was a long-time supporter of Dallas Youth Sports.

Survivors include his children Jimi “Grub” (Robin Bond) Thornburg, Chrystal (Bill) Lovelace, Beth (Victor) Brown, Terry (Christine) Thornburg; grandchildren, Joscelyn Lovelace, Jason (Loren) Lovelace, Jacob and Riley Thornburg, Blake and Madison Brown; great-grandchildrenn, Ethan and Logan Lovelace; brother, Ed Thornburg.

There will be a private family service at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, please send memorials to Robin Johnson Hospice House 5005 Shepherds Way Drive, Dallas, N.C.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.