Beaufort, S.C., October 2, 2025
News Summary
David Clarke Thornton, a skilled craftsman and dedicated family man, has passed away at the age of 70. Known affectionately as ‘Deli Dave’, he made significant contributions to his community through his craft and familial ties. His legacy includes a deep love for his family—including his three children and three grandchildren—and a commitment to the craft that left a lasting impact on those he worked with. David’s journey from Rhode Island to Beaufort, S.C. highlights his passion for life and love for family.
Beaufort, S.C. – David Clarke Thornton, a beloved craftsman and dedicated family man, passed away on September 20, 2025, at the age of 70. Born on December 3, 1954, in Warwick, R.I., David is remembered for his significant contributions to the lives of many and his commitment to building a meaningful legacy.
David’s formative summers spent on Lake Wentworth in Wolfeboro, N.H., enriched his life and forged lifelong friendships with Tom and Skip. As a third-generation steward of Loon, Wal, and Flo islands, he helped maintain family connections that carried on through the years. David graduated from high school in 1972 and attended community college briefly before seeking a path to create something meaningful.
In 1977, David married Barbara Anne Bentsen, and together they had three children: Greg, Scott, and Amy. His entrepreneurial spirit came alive in 1981 when he purchased a deli in Wickford, R.I., earning him the nickname “Deli Dave.” In 1995, David and Barbara relocated to New Hampshire; however, the couple divorced in 2004, yet both maintained a deep love for their children.
In his later years, David found peace in Beaufort, S.C., which he referred to as his “paradise.” While he missed the “Lake Life,” he fully embraced the “Salt Life” in South Carolina. He is survived by his wife Lois Smith, his father Raymond, his brother Richard (and sister-in-law Terry), his sister Melissa, and his three children, Amy (and partner Ricky), Greg (and partner Jessica), and Scott (and wife Kristen). David was also a proud grandfather to three grandchildren: Zoe, Paige, and Camden. Additionally, he is survived by nieces Ashley and Madison, and nephews Brian and Aaron, along with many extended family members.
David’s craftsmanship was evident in every property he worked on, including those built with Fenton Varney Builders. His dedication to his work left a lasting impression on co-workers and clients alike, forming friendships that stood the test of time. He will be remembered for his kindness, commitment, and a unique sense of humor that brought joy to those around him, particularly through his love for puns and Dad jokes.
In lieu of flowers, David’s family encourages donations to Habitat for Humanity in his honor. His life, marked by passion for his craft and love for family, will be sorely missed.
Background Information
David’s childhood experiences, his close-knit family, and his background in craftsmanship shaped him into the person known by many as a friend, father, and craftsman. His legacy lies not only in the homes he built but also in the love he spread among family and friends.
Legacy
David leaves behind a rich legacy of love and craftsmanship, impacting not only his immediate family but the broader community. His spirit will live on in the memories of those he helped and loved.
Funeral Arrangements
Details regarding funeral arrangements and memorial services will be shared by the family in the upcoming days.
FAQ
- Where was David Clarke Thornton born? David Clarke Thornton was born on December 3, 1954, in Warwick, R.I.
- When did David Thornton pass away? He passed away on September 20, 2025, in Beaufort, S.C.
- What nicknames did David have? He became known as “Deli Dave” after purchasing a deli in Wickford, R.I.
- How many children did David have? David had three children: Greg, Scott, and Amy.
- How many grandchildren did David have? He had three grandchildren: Zoe, Paige, and Camden.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Birth Date | December 3, 1954 |
| Death Date | September 20, 2025 |
| Children | Greg, Scott, Amy |
| Grandchildren | Zoe, Paige, Camden |
| Nickname | Deli Dave |
| Residence Prior to Death | Beaufort, S.C. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Your Island News: David Thornton
- Wikipedia: Obituary
- Your Island News: On This Date
- Google Search: David Thornton
- ABC Columbia: Convicted Murderer Sentenced
- Encyclopedia Britannica: News
- Your Island News: Veteran of the Week – Joe Delia
- Google News: Joe Delia
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
