Alice Faye Holland Thornton, 74, passed away on April 23, 2026, at Betsy Johnson Hospital in Dunn, North Carolina. She had been residing at Harnett Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in Dunn.

A graveside service will be held at 4:00 pm on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Zoar Pentecostal Free Will Baptist Church, 740 Zoar Church Road, Salemburg, NC 28385. Pastor Ben Troublefield, officiating.

Born December 11, 1951, in Sampson County, North Carolina, she was the daughter of the late James Senter Holland and Varnita "Lady" Simmons Holland.

Alice spent many years working with livestock, where she was known for her dedication and strong work ethic. Her final place of employment was Sharon's Diner, where she was loved by coworkers and customers alike. She was a member of Clinton Family Worship Center and attended as long as her health allowed. Alice had a deep love for animals, music, and dancing—especially shag music. Even during her long battle with Alzheimer's disease, music remained a source of joy and connection.

Known for her fiery spirit and unmistakable red hair, Alice was a feisty woman whose strength and determination carried her through life. Her love for her family and the simple joys of music and dancing will be remembered by all who knew her.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Allen Thornton, Sr., who passed away December 31, 2025; her sisters, Christine Bruce and Esterlene Holland; and her brothers, William Gady Holland and Houstus Holland.

She is survived by her daughters, Lorie Ann Bullard Sutton of Autryville and Carrie Nicole Spell of Newton Grove; three stepchildren, Robert Allen Thornton, Jr., Patricia Longino and husband Matthew, and Nina Thoman and husband Kevin; and her grandchildren, Emily Hope Luna and husband Pedro Luna of Autryville, Aaron Curtis Sutton and partner Adell Wells of Autryville, and Brittney Nicole Spell of Roseboro. She was also blessed with two great-grandchildren, Adrian and Ella Luna.

She also leaves behind extended family members, including her niece, Sophia Holland Price, with whom she shared a special bond.

The family would like to thank the staff of Harnett Woods Nursing and Rehabilitation Center for their care and compassion during Alice's final years.

In lieu of flowers please donate to Dementia Alliance of North Carolina.