Derrick James Thornton, a man of many talents and passions, departed this life on Saturday, February 18, 2023, leaving behind a legacy of creativity, community activism, and love. He was 43 years old.

​ Derrick was born on April 26, 1979, and was the only child born to the union of Albert (June) Ashley and Connie Thornton. Growing up in Lake Charles, LA, he developed a love for art, literature, and music from an early age. As he grew older, he expanded his interests and became an accomplished author, poet, artist, community activist, entrepreneur, political activist, an aspiring scholar of Black history, graphic designer, brand ambassador, and Facebook comedian.

​ Derrick was passionate about making a positive change in his community. He was honored by the Mayor of Lake Charles for his community mural project, "Gulf Coast Mural Project", which brought people together from all walks of life to celebrate the diversity and resilience of their city. He was a tireless advocate for social justice, using his voice and his talents to raise awareness about issues affecting his community and beyond.

Despite his many accomplishments, Derrick knew that his talents were gifts from God, and for that, he kept his faith in the Lord.  He was a  member of Riverside Baptist Church under the leadership of Pastor Lee Wilson.

Derrick was a Fellow Craft Mason and Brother of Ionic Lodge #26 in Lake Charles of the Most High Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Louisiana and its jurisdictions.

H e was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, Ruby and Albert Ashley, Sr., maternal grandparents, Rafers January and Marvin Thornton, special grandmother, Lorena January, and uncles, Kevin Savoy, and Alex Ashley.

Derrick may have lived a busy life, but he never lost sight of what was truly important to him: his family. He was an honorable son to his parents, Albert (June) and Connie Thornton Ashley, Jr.; a devoted husband to his wife, Samantha; a loving father to his four children, Christian, Madison, Payton, and Bailey; a good godfather to his goddaughter, Kerriana Sweet, a wonderful godson to his godfather, James Garrick, and a bonus son to his father and mother-in-law, and a great friend to those who had the pleasure of knowing him. He cherished every moment spent with family and friends, and those who had the pleasure of being in his company will always remember him as a kind, generous, and funny man who had a heart of gold.

​ Fond memories of Derrick will forever remain with his wife, children, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He leaves behind a legacy of creativity, community, and love that will continue to inspire and uplift others for generations to come.

Services will be held on Saturday, March 4, 2023, at Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church, 119 North Bank Street, Lake Charles, LA.  Visitation is scheduled from 9 AM to 11 AM.  The Ionic Lodge #26 in Lake Charles of the Most High Worshipful Prince Hall Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of Louisiana and its jurisdictions will present the Masonic Resolution of Respect at 10:30 AM.  The funeral will begin at 11 AM. Burial internment will be at Sacred Heart Cemetery #2 under the direction of King's Funeral Home.

For words of comfort, please visit www.kingsfuneralhomela.com .