Thornton graduated from Arkansas State College in 1958 earning the award as the top male student.
After college Thornton became a sports editor at The Jonesboro Sun and then at the Arkansas Gazette.
Thornton also served as the chief executive director for the Memphis Showboats of the United States Football League (USFL).
Thornton was also part of the operations staff of the NCAA basketball tournament for many years.
Thornton is a member of the Hall of Fame of the College Football Sports Information Directors of America and a recipient of the Arch Ward Award.