Billy Joe “Pistol” Thornton, 85, of Miller Grove, Texas, passed away on February 17, 2026.
Born July 17, 1940 in Purcell, Oklahoma, he learned hard work early, running a dairy before moving to Texas where he met his wife of 57 years, Angela. They built a life in Warsaw for more than four decades before settling in Miller Grove to be near their grandchildren.
Bill worked for the Dallas ISD HVAC Department and devoted over 40 years to the State Fair of Texas Livestock Department. A true cowboy, he was a bull rider, horse show hand and judge of what friends called “a million rodeos.” He helped establish the Lonestar High School Rodeo Association, sharing his values of grit, discipline and integrity with young competitors.
Known for his easygoing nature, quiet smile and strong presence, he loved rodeo life and treasured time with his family above all.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Joe and Dora; sisters, Christine, AnnaBelle, Francis and Shirley; his father-in-law, Robert Cave; and his mother-in-law, Elaine Nalls and her husband, Nathan.
He is survived by his wife, Angela; daughter, Karen (Matt) Darr; son, Bryan (Jenni) Thornton; grandchildren, Mackelvey (Nathan) Leone, Cason and Cash Thornton; brother-in-law, Gary (Patty) Cave and many nieces, nephews and cousins.
His boots may be still, but his spirit rides on in every arena and every heart he touched.