Mrs. Cora Bell Gilliam Thornton was born June 9, 1930 to Howard Leigh and Orabell Gilliam in Cumberland, Virginia. Cora departed this life on Tuesday, November 22, 2022. Her parents preceded her in death. Her husband, Lee Z. Thornton, also preceded her in death. She confessed Christ at an early age and was baptized and joined Sharon Baptist Church. During her later years in life she moved her membership to the Zion Hill Baptist Church in Farmville, VA where she was a faithful member until she relocated to Richmond, VA. Cora attended R. R. Moton High School and also participated on the cheerleading squad. She worked as the head cook for Hotel Weyanoke for decades until they closed. She then worked as a cook at Longwood College until she retired. Her hobbies included cooking and she loved singing. She enjoyed mostly spending time with her family and friends. She leaves to cherish her memories: her devoted son, Edward (Dorothy) of Richmond VA; devoted granddaughter, Tamara of Chester, VA, whom she referred to as her little doll baby; her sister-in-law, Esther Minor of Stafford, VA; one devoted niece, Sheila Watkins; two devoted nephews, Wiley Thornton, Jr. and John Wesley Watkins; and a host of other nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. Cora will be truly missed.