Janis “Trudy” Thornton, Community Pillar, Passes Away at 75

BREAKING NEWS: Janis “Trudy” Thornton, a beloved figure in the Durham community, has passed away at the age of 75. She joined her Heavenly Father on October 11, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of love and service that touched many lives.

Born on June 7, 1950, in Brooklyn, New York, Trudy was the daughter of the late Charles Mammarella Sr. and Pearl Tomson. She was married to her devoted husband, Joseph F. Thornton, for an impressive 58 years. Together, they raised their daughter, Janis Thornton Moore, who is married to Michael Moore. Trudy’s family continued to grow, with her granddaughter Alysha Thornton and two great-grandchildren, Josie Thornton and Joseph A. Thornton.

Trudy was a dedicated community member, serving as the postmaster of the Durham Post Office for an extraordinary 38 years until its closure. Her passion for family was evident in her cherished moments spent watching her favorite Disney movies and engaging in word searches.

A calling hour is scheduled for Monday, October 20th, from 10 to 11 a.m. at A.J. Cunningham Funeral Home, located at 4898 State Route 81, Greenville. The funeral will follow immediately at 11 a.m., with burial taking place at 1:30 p.m. in Saratoga National Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to the Make-a-Wish Foundation or the Children’s Hospital at Albany Medical Center, honoring Trudy’s spirit of giving and compassion. Friends and family can leave condolence messages at ajcunninghamfh.com.

This heartfelt news is a reminder of the profound impact one individual can have within a community. Trudy’s legacy will undoubtedly live on in the memories of those who loved her.