Melissa Gaila (Nelson) Thornton

 “But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.” (Isaiah 53:5)

    Melissa Gaila Nelson Thornton was born on September 24, 1978, in Liberty County to the late Walter Nelson Jr., and Gale Wright Nelson. She was the youngest of five children. On Friday, May 12, 2023, at 2:55 a.m., at Piedmont Macon Hospital in Macon, Georgia, God called her home to rest. 

     She confessed Christ at an early age at Faith Temple Holiness Church.   Melissa received her education in the Liberty County Public School System. In May 2012, she was united in holy matrimony to the late Robert Thornton, and they were the parents of nine children.

     A faithful and caring employee, Melissa was employed with All Hours Nursing and Care, LLC until her health failed. With her bright and winning smile, she knew how to bring joy and laughter to her patients. Affectionally known as “Moe,” she enjoyed spreading love all around.  She didn’t meet any strangers and people were drawn to her because of her sweet spirit. Melissa enjoyed decorating, listening to music, and setting trends.

   Melissa leaves to cherish her precious memories:  her nine loving children,  Jasmine Nelson, Jamel Hines (Peyton), Jiaren Nelson, Amya Carter, Josiah Thornton, Zyshone Thornton, Zykeria Thornton, Zyreia Thornton, and Zion Thornton; four siblings, Jennifer Newsom, Angela Wright Floyd (Jean), Angel Nelson James (Henry), and Walter Nelson III (Christyl); aunts, Winnie Wright, Coreatha Spencer, Annie Rose Aikens, Carolyn Ross, Dorothy Quarterman, and Sharon Moody (Ronald); uncles, Grady Anderson (Mae), Donald Anderson, and Walter Cummings; grandchild, Jarron Jamel Hines; and a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, others relatives, and friends. Special acknowledgement for her care takers: Jennifer Newsom and Jennifer Wright Jefferson.

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