Mrs. Regina "Gina" (Ashley) Thornton

UTICA – Mrs. Regina “Gina” (Ashley) Thornton, 65, entered into eternal rest on November 13, 2025. She was born on September 15,1960 in Troy, NY to the union of Glennys (McCoy) Ashley and the late Bishop Calvin Ashley, Jr. Regina graduated from Utica Free Academy then entered the medical field receiving her LPN through B.O.C.E.S. with over 15 years working for Heritage Home (The Grand). Although Regina faced many health challenges, she obtained her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Healthcare Administrations through Grand Canyon University (with honors). Along with her many accomplishments Regina was ordained as a pastor in the Greater Highway Church of Utica, where she served faithfully. Regina married Gary W. Thornton in June of 1983. Out of their union came the blessing of six beautiful children. Regina’s life, service, and devotion have left an indelible mark on all who knew her. We honor her legacy, her faithfulness, and the love she poured into her church, her family, and everyone she encountered. Regina was preceded in death by her father, Bishop Calvin Ashley, Jr.; sister Loretta (Gandy) Ashley; and brother, Ricky Ashley. Regina leaves to cherish her memory her husband, Gary W. Thornton of Utica; and her six children and their partners: Terrence and Tiffany Thornton of San Antonio, TX; Yaron Israel “Gary” and Apolonia Thornton of NJ; William Thornton and Latiqua Darby of Utica; Candace Thornton and Andre Grace of Utica; Justin Thornton and Cherrelle Glover of Utica; and Jerel Thornton of Syracuse, NY. She is also survived by her mother, Glennys Ashley of Utica; her sisters, Fay Ashley and Bernard Harris of Smyrna, GA, and Christina Ashley of NC; and her brothers, Anthony and Leslie Ashley of MD, and James Ashley of NY. In addition, she is remembered with love by several bonus siblings whom her parents fostered—you know who you are; much love to you all. She also leaves behind her cherished grandchildren: Christopher Thornton, Amia Thornton, Jayden Thornton, Jayden Bush, Terrence Thornton Jr., Yair Israel, Anthony Thornton, Gianna Thornton, Alaya Israel, Yadyah Israel, Mckyenze Thornton, and a granddaughter Thornton on the way. Regina is further survived by her nieces and nephews: Iyanna Ashley, Kevin and Annakay Ashley, Calvin Ashley, Joseph and Denise Sonkwa, Andrew Ashley, Victoria Ashley, and Alexander Ashley; and her great-nieces and great-nephews: Kyndall, Kali, Aiden, Amabelle, Ashton, Chance, and Kaysen. She also leaves her godchildren, Regina Brown, and Ajahlai Smith, as well as many beloved extended family members and friends. The family wishes to extend their gratitude to Gina and the staff of Nascentia Health, Cardiology/Transplant Team of Strongs Memorial Hospital, Rochester, NY, for their years of care and compassion. Visitation will be held on Friday, November 21, 2025, from 5:00-7:00 p.m., at the Eannace Funeral Home, Inc., 932 South St., corner of Hammond Ave. Memorial contributions in Regina’s honor may be made to Greater Highway Deliverance Temple by mail to 1705 Whitesboro St., Utica, NY 13501; envelopes will also be available at the funeral home. Relatives and friends are respectfully invited to attend Regina’s Home Going Service and Celebration of Life, which will commence on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at 9:00 a.m. at Greater Highway Deliverance Temple, 1705 Whitesboro St. Interment will take place in Forest Hill Cemetery at the convenience of the family. This tribute to Regina’s life has been lovingly written by her family.

Mrs. Regina "Gina" (Ashley) Thornton

September 15, 1960 - November 13, 2025