Zaelyn A. "ZaeZae" Thornton

     Zaelyn A. "ZaeZae" Thornton, a beacon of joy and love, passed away on November 17, 2023, in Lanett, Alabama. Born on February 21, 2022, in Opelika, Alabama, ZaeZae, as he was affectionately known, was a child whose vibrant personality and infectious laughter brought warmth and happiness to everyone around him.

     ZaeZae was the beloved son of Haleigh Wilkerson and Teonquavious Pruitt. He was the cherished younger brother of Mackenzie West and Jaiden Moody. His grandparents, Mandy and Brandon Bracknell, along with his great grandparents, Melody and Brad Brown, Pat and Tracie Wilkerson, and his great great-grandmother, Pat McCollough, held him dear to their hearts. ZaeZae was also adored by his great aunt and uncle, Kacey and Zach Watts, great uncles, Johnny McCollough, Kacey Manley, great aunt, Susan Bennett, and his cousins, Makayla Boddie (Brandon), Kaydens (Wyatt) Watts, Jayclen Watts (Vincent), Austin McDonald. His extended family members and friends will remember him fondly.

     ZaeZae was a child who embodied the essence of love, humor, and gentleness. His smile was a radiant beam that could light up any room and warm any heart. He was a loving child, always ready to share a hug or a kind word. His sense of humor was infectious, often leaving everyone around him in fits of laughter. ZaeZae also had a healthy appetite, delighting in the simple pleasures of a good meal.

     In the words of the renowned author, Dr. Seuss, "Don't cry because it's over. Smile because it happened." This quote encapsulates the spirit of ZaeZae's life. Despite his short time on earth, he brought immense joy and happiness to those around him. His life, though brief, was filled with laughter, love, and warmth.

     ZaeZae's life was a testament to the power of love and joy. His infectious laughter, radiant smile, and loving nature touched the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was a beacon of light in the lives of his family and friends, and his memory will continue to shine brightly in their hearts.

     In remembering ZaeZae, we celebrate a life that, though short, was filled with love, laughter, and joy. His spirit, embodied in his radiant smile and infectious laughter, will continue to live on in the hearts of those who loved him. As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the joy and love he brought into our lives.

     Zaelyn A. "ZaeZae" Thornton, a child of love, laughter, and joy, will be deeply missed but never forgotten. His memory will continue to inspire love, laughter, and joy in the hearts of those who knew him. His life, though brief, was a testament to the power of love and joy. His spirit will continue to shine brightly, reminding us all to cherish the moments of love, laughter, and joy in our lives.

     Funeral services will be held on Saturday, November 25, 2023, at 2:00 P.M. EST at the Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home in Valley with interment following in Harmony Memorial Park.  Visitation will be Saturday one hour prior to the service. The Reverend Bill Bryan officiating. 

Johnson Brown-Service Funeral Home directing....

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