RUFFIN :     Mathew Eric Thornton passed away Tuesday, December 29, 2020 from injuries sustained in an automobile accident in Dorchester County.  He was 16.

Mathew was born in Walterboro April 1, 2004.  A tenth grader at Colleton County High School, he was known to his friends and family as a prankster and a joker….but also as a caring young man who would do anything for somebody in need.  Mathew possessed a love for fire service, and had been actively involved with Colleton County Fire and Rescue in the Explorer Program for almost three years.  He loved cars and animals, and was a devoted son, brother and friend.

He is survived by his parents, Krystall Reeves Krajeski (Brandon) and Eric Thornton (Kimberly).  He has five siblings:  Heather and Charles Thornton, Lilliana Russo, and Bradley and Dawson Krajeski.  He leaves behind his grandfathers Charlie Bell, Raymond Thornton and Bruce Krajeski, as well as his special cousins Aspen, Kaine and Cody Davis.  Mathew is also survived by his aunts Jennifer Thornton, Cortney Krajeski, and Candy and Jessica Reeves, and by his uncle John Reeves.  He was preceded in death by grandparents Bobbie Bell, and John and Jill Reeves.

Funeral services will be held Monday, January 4, 2021 at 2:00 in the Chapel of Parker-Rhoden Funeral Home, with burial following in Greenlawn Memorial Gardens.  The family will receive friends beginning at 12:00 at the funeral home, located at 117 Paul Street in Walterboro.