Roger Eugene Thornberry, age 82, of Ann Arbor, MI, passed away on July 5, 2026.
Roger was born on November 21, 1943, in Ann Arbor, Michigan, the son of Eugene and Juanita (Satterfield) Thornberry. A lifelong resident of the Ann Arbor area, Roger graduated from Ann Arbor High School in 1961. He grew up helping his father in the family's car sales business. Roger spent many years working in automotive sales before purchasing a salvage yard named RT's Automotive in 1985. The salvage yard became his pride and joy and a place where customers became friends. Roger never met a stranger. He loved talking with people, sharing stories, and making everyone feel welcome.
Roger enjoyed competing in demolition derbies, and his derby car became something of a mascot for RT's Automotive. He loved collecting automotive memorabilia, especially hubcaps, and his family often joked that one of anything was never enough. If there was an old car part to save or a hubcap to add to his collection, Roger was interested.
Roger could often be found meeting family and friends for coffee and a donut, catching up on the latest news. He never passed up a good bargain and especially enjoyed garage sales.
Above all, Roger cherished his family. He loved being a grandfather and great-grandfather.
Roger is survived by his daughters, Tammy (Jeff) Taylor of Dexter and Vickie Thornberry (Demola Osofisan) of Ann Arbor; a son, Chris (Tiffany) Thornberry of Lewiston; his grandchildren: Amanda Taylor, Katie (Jake) Stacey, Emalie (Steven Rhonehouse) Taylor, Collin Taylor, Denise Osofisan, Omolara Osofisan, Aidan Osofisan, Kara Thornberry, Connor Thornberry, and Olivia Bungardas; his great-grandchildren: Colton, Deklan, Lucy, Millie, Kenyan, and Braydan; a brother, Delbert Thornberry; and several nieces, nephews, extended family members, and many lifelong friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Eugene and Juanita Thornberry; a sister, Patricia Dangler; and a brother, Elbert Thornberry.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
Arrangements by Staffan-Mitchell Funeral Home, Chelsea.
