Obituary of Celeste Thornton

Celeste Thornton, 66, passed away on Wednesday, March 25, 2015, surrounded by her loved ones. Born on September 12, 1948, Celeste was preceded in death by her son Richie Heckler, her father Richard Weick, and her stepfather Bob Kirt. An accomplished woman, born in Fort Wayne, Indiana, Celeste moved to Kentucky and earned her Bachelor's Degree in Business Management from Kentucky State University. Dedicated to leading her children and inspiring others, Celeste Thornton was involved in Girl Scouts, helping many young women find their way in this world. Her service to them was recognized in 1995 when she received the highest award the Girl Scouts of America give to volunteers nationally, The Thanks Badge. Again in 1998, Celeste was recognized by the Girl Scouts of America when she received the Honor Pin. No one who knew Celeste Thornton ever left her less than inspired. She brought out the best in everyone around her with her kindness, strength, compassion, and leadership. Celeste Thornton was unparalleled in her devotion to her family. She is survived by her loving husband, Jeff Bradshaw; her wonderful daughter Rahni Sumner and her husband Dylan; her mother Patricia Kirt; her beloved sister Debra Tarlton; two brothers whom she loved dearly, Michael Weick and his wife Diana Rodgers-Weick, and Bradley Weick and his wife Lynn; and her stepmother, Florence Weick. She is also survived by her stepdaughters, Sesamie Bradshaw, Erika Bradshaw, and Ashley Cline. Celeste was a precious Grandma to Louis Heckler, Jaden Rodgers; Alex, Miranda, and Blair Zornoza; and Annabeth, Charles, Lydia, and Jonah Cline; and great-Grandma to Aubree Zornoza. Celeste is survived by nephew JR Houghlin and many other nieces and nephews, each of whom she treasured. When her loved shined upon you, one could bask in it forever. There was never a person like Celeste Thornton and there shall never be again. It was a privilege to know her and an even bigger one to have been loved by her. Life Celebration Services for this remarkable woman will be held at Rogers Funeral Home, Frankfort, Kentucky, from 2:00 pm until the memorial service at 6:00 pm. A private interment will take place at a later date. In addition to flowers, donations can be made in Celeste Thornton's honor to Girl Scouts of Kentucky Wilderness Road Council.