Chad Thornberry

Chad Allen Thornberry, loving husband, father, son, brother, and friend left this world suddenly on August 6, 2024, at age 45.

While his family and friends are shocked by his death, they are thankful for his life. Chad was larger-than-life. He was down-to-earth and genuine, and had the unique ability to make everyone around him feel comfortable. He enjoyed the simple pleasures of life and took delight in sitting at the home he built with his family, watching Ancient Aliens or American Dad. If you have ever had a conversation with him, you know that he could be philosophical and make you think, or could equally be goofy and make you laugh. He lit up every room with his positive energy, smile, and dance moves. His philosophy in life was to contribute what he could and be a blessing to others. His motto was “If I have it, I can give it.” 

Chad was born on March 17, 1979, and raised in the coastal town of Paso Robles, California. He graduated from Paso Robles High School in 1997. He loved living near the beach, and would wake up early to go surfing before his morning classes. Additionally, he loved sports and played the position of quarterback for the Paso Robles Bearcats. He attended California Polytechnic State University (CalPoly) in San Luis Obispo and majored in biochemistry. However, his love of music had other plans for him. For almost a decade, Chad played guitar in a band called “Endothrot.”

In time, Chad moved to Arizona, where he worked at the Grand Canyon, growing his love of carpentry. He later moved to Lake Havasu City, where he regained his passion into practical science, apprenticing as an electrician. Here, is where he met and married his wife, Courtney Jo Allen. They have two beautiful daughters: Layla Rae and Joelle Kennedy. His daughters were the light of his life!

Chad and Courtney moved to Arkansas in 2013, where Chad became an avid Razorback fan and realized he was a country boy at heart. He built two homes for his family including their forever home on the five acres where they currently reside and where he will be laid to rest.

Chad is survived by his wife, Courtney; daughters, Layla and Joelle; father, Rick Thornberry (Renee) of Gentry, AR; mother, Doreen Denisty (Doug) of Lake Havasu City, AZ; brother, Tyler Thornberry (Kristin, Jake, Austin, Rylie) of Decatur, AR; sister, Kylie Thornberry of Brunswick, GA; brother, Bryan Thornberry of Big Springs, TX; Courtney's siblings, whom he loved like his own; so many uncles, aunts, cousins, and in-laws; and countless friends!

Private services will be held with attendance limited to those invited by the immediate family.

The arrangements were entrusted to Backstrom-Pyeatte Funeral Home of Siloam Springs, Arkansas. To sign the online guestbook, please visit www.backstrom-pyeatte.com.