Joseph Craig Thornsbury

With heavy hearts and spiritual joy, we share the passing of Joseph “Joey” Thornsbury, 57, on Friday, August 14th, 2026, after a brave four-year battle with cancer. Joey fought like a warrior until the very end. We take comfort in knowing he is now walking with Jesus.

Joey was born and raised in Salem, VA. He was preceded in death by his parents, Francis J. Thornsbury and Hewey J. Thornsbury, and is survived by his brother, Kenneth D. Thornsbury. Joey has been laid to rest naturally at Forest Rest Cemetery in Boones Mill, VA.

To those who knew and loved him, Joey was more than intelligent and quick-witted, he was a master storyteller, and the heartbeat and glue of his friend group. He taught us what loyalty truly means, not just through words, but through the way he showed up for the people he loved. Though he had no children of his own, he loved his many “adopted” nieces and nephews as family. Thursday night poker games will never feel the same without him, but the laughter, stories, and memories he gave us will stay with us always. Joey’s legacy lives on in the small, lasting impressions he left on our hearts… a conversation that lingers, a memory that still makes us smile, and the warm feeling that he is still near. He will always be with us in memory, in spirit, and in heart.

A memorial service will be held for Joey at New Covenant Christian Church, 4807 Cove Rd in Roanoke on Sunday August 30th. Visitation will begin at 1 pm and the service will begin at 2 pm. Flowers are welcomed and can be delivered directly to the church