Dennis Ryan Thornton, 43, of Fort Worth, passed away on Tuesday, August 6, 2024.

Ryan was born on March 5, 1981 to Howard Dennis Thornton and Deborah Renee Hernandez in Fort Worth, Texas. After Ryan graduated from Richland High School, in 1999 he went on to follow his passion in personal training.

Private Family Service.

In 2003, he met Wendy Redden in Dallas, Texas who were married in December of 2005. Ryan and Wendy went on to have two children, Declin Rian Thornton, 18 and Deirdre Reyn Thornton, 14.

During this time Ryan got back into his family's business of Asphalt Construction and followed an 11-year career with different companies as a QC Manager and Supervisor. The couple lived in Leander, Texas until their recent divorce.

Ryan loved to be silly and funny. He was definitely the class clown growing up in school. He had a million silly nick names for his dogs and was often singing silly made up songs on a random weekend about nothing in particular. He was a loving and doting Father, loyal son, coach, friend and brother. He cared about others and was always available to listen and comfort those going through a hard time even when he was struggling internally himself.

He had a light and faith about him that was contagious for others. He was also very open about his struggles with his own mental health and addiction issues which touched many in the program and gave them hope. He was a friend of everyone – no matter their status, race or creed – he was inclusive to all.

Ryan was also very talented. He loved painting, singing, writing and music. He enjoyed spending time with friends and family and growing up he loved playing hockey and staying active in the gym. He also loved traveling and seeing new places and learning new things.

Ryan is survived by his Grandfather, Danny "PoPo" Hernandez; Father, Dennis Howard Thornton; Mother, Deborah Hernandez; Sister, Alicha Ray and Brother-In-Law Nathan Ray; Niece, Sophia Ray; Nephew, Connor Thornton; great-niece, Oaklee Thornton - all from the DFW area and his children, Declin and Deirdre Thornton of Leander, and Gabriel Ryan Thornton of San Marcos. He is also survived by numerous Aunts, Uncles and Cousins on both his mother's and father's side.